The Complete Guide to Commercial EICRs

A commercial EICR follows the same principles as any periodic inspection, but the scale, occupancy and operational constraints of commercial premises mean it needs careful planning. This guide walks through the process end to end so duty holders know what to expect and how to keep disruption to a minimum.

Step 1 — Scope the installation

Start by establishing the extent of the installation: how many distribution boards and circuits, the age and type of the system, and any areas with special requirements. This scoping drives an accurate quote and a realistic programme.

Step 2 — Plan around occupancy

Commercial sites cannot usually be switched off during trading hours. Plan the work so that:

• visual inspection and live testing happen during normal hours where safe;
• circuit isolations are scheduled for quiet periods or out of hours; and
• critical systems (servers, refrigeration, security) are identified and protected.

For large estates, a phased programme across several visits keeps the business running.

Step 3 — Agree sampling and limitations

Where full testing of every circuit is impractical, agree a representative sample in advance. The sampling basis and any limitations (circuits that could not be isolated, inaccessible areas) must be recorded on the report so the result is transparent and meaningful.

Step 4 — Inspect and test

A competent person carries out the visual inspection and the dead and live tests described in BS 7671 — continuity, insulation resistance, polarity, earth fault loop impedance, RCD operation and prospective fault current — recording results as they go.

Step 5 — Understand the result

The EICR is declared Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. Observations are coded C1, C2, C3 or FI. Any C1, C2 or FI makes the installation unsatisfactory and triggers remedial action. C3 items are recommendations that do not fail the report.

Step 6 — Manage remedial works

Prioritise remedial work by code — C1 immediately, C2 urgently, FI without delay — and have it carried out and certified by a competent person. Keeping the EICR and remedial certificates together provides a complete audit trail.

Step 7 — Diarise the next inspection

Record the recommended re-inspection date and add it to a compliance calendar. For multi-site portfolios, a central calendar prevents reports lapsing and demonstrates a proactive, defensible approach to electrical safety.

Managed this way, a commercial EICR is a straightforward, low-disruption exercise that gives the business documented assurance its electrical installation is safe.