Electrical testing isn't just for new installations. Whether you're buying a property, renting one out, or simply want to check that your home's wiring is safe, periodic testing gives you a clear picture of where you stand. Here's a straightforward guide to the types of testing available, when you need them, and what the reports actually mean.
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
An EICR — sometimes called a periodic inspection — is a thorough assessment of your property's electrical installation. A qualified electrician inspects the consumer unit, wiring, earthing, bonding, sockets, switches, and light fittings. Every circuit is tested for continuity, insulation resistance, polarity, and earth fault loop impedance. The result is a detailed report that grades the condition of every part of the installation.
Understanding the Grading System
Each observation in an EICR is given a code:
- C1 — Danger present — Risk of injury exists. Immediate remedial action required
- C2 — Potentially dangerous — Urgent remedial action required
- C3 — Improvement recommended — Not immediately dangerous but falls short of current standards
- FI — Further investigation required — The inspector couldn't fully assess a part of the installation without further work
A report with no C1 or C2 observations is generally considered satisfactory. C3 items are advisory — they highlight areas where the installation doesn't meet current standards but isn't unsafe. We always explain every observation in plain language so you understand exactly what the report means for your property.
When Do You Need Testing?
Several situations call for electrical testing:
- Buying a property — A pre-purchase electrical survey gives you leverage in negotiations and flags any costly upgrades needed
- Selling a property — A clean EICR reassures buyers and solicitors that the electrics are in order
- Renting out a property — Landlords have a legal duty to ensure electrical safety. Regular testing demonstrates compliance
- Every 10 years (residential) — The wiring regulations recommend periodic inspection at least every 10 years for domestic properties
- Every 5 years (commercial) — Commercial properties, offices, and retail premises should be tested every 5 years
- After a major alteration — If you've had significant building work done, it's worth verifying the electrical installation hasn't been compromised
New Installation Testing
When a new electrical installation is completed — whether it's a full house rewire, a new build, or a new circuit — the installing contractor must test and certify the work. This isn't optional. The RECI completion certificate confirms that the installation has been tested in accordance with IS 10101 and is safe for use. This certificate is your evidence of compliance for insurance, conveyancing, and building control purposes.
What Testing Costs
A standard EICR for a three-bedroom house typically takes 2–3 hours and costs between €200 and €350, depending on the size and complexity of the installation. If remedial work is needed, we'll quote that separately so you can make an informed decision. There are no surprises — you'll know exactly what needs doing and what it costs before any work begins.
Choosing a Testing Provider
Testing should be carried out by a RECI-registered electrician using calibrated test instruments. The report should include detailed test results, not just a pass/fail summary. At J Cowman Electrical Contractors, we provide comprehensive EICRs with clear explanations of every finding, and we keep records so you can track the condition of your installation over time.