Knowledge article
What Happens During an EICR?
During an EICR a competent person carries out a visual inspection and a series of dead and live tests on the fixed installation, then reports the results.
An EICR is a structured process combining visual inspection with electrical testing. It is carried out by a competent person using calibrated instruments and following the model forms and procedures in BS 7671 and IET guidance.
1. Preparation and sampling
Before testing begins, the electrician confirms the extent of the installation, agrees any limitations (for example circuits that cannot be isolated), and establishes a safe system of work. On large installations a representative sample of circuits may be tested, with the sampling basis recorded on the report.
2. Visual inspection
A thorough visual inspection checks for damage, deterioration, overheating, and non-compliances that testing alone would not reveal — such as inadequate enclosures, unsuitable equipment for the environment, missing labelling, or signs of DIY alterations.
3. Dead testing
With circuits safely isolated, the electrician carries out dead tests, including:
- Continuity of protective conductors, ring final circuits and bonding.
- Insulation resistance to detect deterioration or damage to cable insulation.
- Polarity to confirm correct connections.
4. Live testing
Once dead tests are complete, live tests are performed with the supply energised, including:
- Earth fault loop impedance to confirm the installation will disconnect quickly under fault.
- RCD operation to confirm residual current devices trip within required times.
- Prospective fault current measurements.
5. Reporting and classification
The results are recorded on the EICR. Any observations are assigned a classification code — C1, C2, C3 or FI — and the overall outcome is declared Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. The report also records the recommended date for the next inspection.
6. Remedial action
Where the report is unsatisfactory, the duty holder arranges for the coded items to be put right by a competent person and certified. Keeping the EICR alongside any remedial certificates provides a complete, defensible record of the installation's safety.
Frequently asked questions
Will the power be turned off during an EICR?
Yes, for part of it. Dead testing requires circuits to be isolated, so supplies are switched off for short periods. A competent electrician will agree timings in advance to minimise disruption, especially in occupied commercial premises.
How long does an EICR take?
It depends on the number of circuits and the size and complexity of the installation. A small flat may take a few hours; a large commercial building with many distribution boards can take considerably longer or be phased over several visits.
More in this topic
Code explanation
EICR C1 Code: Danger Present
A C1 on an EICR means danger is present and a risk of injury exists. It requires immediate action and always makes a report Unsatisfactory.
Learn moreComparison
Difference Between C1 and C2 on an EICR
C1 means danger is present now and requires immediate action; C2 means potentially dangerous — safe now but a fault could make it dangerous. Both fail an EICR.
Learn moreCode explanation
EICR C2 Code: Potentially Dangerous
A C2 on an EICR means potentially dangerous — no immediate danger, but a fault could make it dangerous. It requires urgent remedial action and fails the report.
Learn moreComparison
Difference Between C2 and C3 on an EICR
C2 is potentially dangerous and fails an EICR, requiring urgent remedial work; C3 is a non-urgent improvement recommendation that keeps the report Satisfactory.
Learn moreThis article provides general guidance and distinguishes legislation, British Standards and good practice. It is not legal advice. Always confirm the specific duties applying to your property and tenure.