Frequently Asked Questions

What is Electrical Testing?

You may hear Fixed Testing referred to as the following:

 

  • Periodic Inspection and Testing
  • Fixed Wire Testing
  • EICR
  • Test & Inspection
  • Electrical Installation Condition Reporting
  • Electrical Testing

 

An EICR involves the testing of electrical services and systems that conduct electricity around a property. It covers all of the hard wiring in a property and includes items such as Fuse Boards, lighting, socket outlets, The testing involves performing a sequence of rigorous visual inspections and electrical tests to the wiring.

How Often Should An Electrical Condition Report Be Carried Out?

The frequency of a EICR must be determined taking into account:

  • the type of installation
  • its use and operation
  • the frequency and quality of maintenance
  • the external influences to which it is subjected

Guide to Testing Intervals

Type of Installation

Maximum period between
inspections and testing
as necessary

 

General installation

Domestic accommodation –
general
Domestic accommodation -
rented houses and flats

 

change of occupancy/10 years


change of occupancy/5 years


 

Commercial

change of occupancy/5 years

 

Educational establishments

5 years

 

Hospitals and medical clinics -
general areas
Hospitals and medical clinics -
medical locations

5 years

1 year

 

Industrial

3 years

 

Residential accommodation (Houses of
Multiple Occupation) - halls of residence,
nurse’s accommodation, etc.

Change of occupancy/5 years

 

Offices

5 years

 

Shops

5 years

 

Cinemas

1-3 years

 

Church installations

5 years

 

Leisure complexes
(excluding swimming pools)

3 years

 

Places of public entertainment

3 years

 

Restaurants and hotels

5 years

 

Theatres

3 years

 

Public houses

5 years

 

Village halls/Community centres

5 years

 

Swimming pools

1 year

 

Launderettes

1 year

 

Petrol filling stations

1 year

 

Construction site installations

3 months


 

What is PAT Testing?

Portable appliance testing is a process by which electrical appliances are routinely checked to see whether they are safe for use. Portable appliance testing is an important part of an individuals or companies responsibility to health and safety.

Is PAT Testing a legal requirement?

No, however it is a legal requirement for all employers' to make sure that all electrical equipment is SAFE. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, state that 'As may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable such danger'. The best way of complying with this requirement is to inspect and test portable appliances on a regular basis.

What types of appliances need testing?

Other than the fixed installation, all electrical equipment in an installation, whether permanently connected or connected by a plug and socket-outlet, should be inspected and tested. In other words, portable appliances items such as kettles, toasters, IT equipment, washing machines, tools, hairdryers etc. Also, fixed appliances such as a hand dryer secured in a specific location will need to be tested as these are not covered within a fixed wiring installation test. Other examples may include electric showers, water heaters, fans, etc.

How much will my testing cost?

We quote prices based on your individual circumstances, the type of electrical installation and the amount of items you require PAT testing. Please contact us for a quotation.

Does electrical testing affect our insurance cover?

Insurance companies assume that when giving insurance cover, the owners of that insurance policy are complying with all regulations necessary. An insurance company may reduce, delay or even refuse to pay on a claim for damage if an appliance that has not been tested has caused the damage.