EICR & PAT Test Certifications
What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is in depth inspection conducted by an approved and competent electrician. The inspection will determine the condition of the electrical systems currently installed at the property. This is true for both residential and commercial properties.
The primary objective of the EICR inspection is to determine if any degradation, deterioration or defects are currently present in the system. It is a very thorough inspection as all electrical components (including the entire system) are visually checked.
Do you need an Electrical Installation Condition Report?
This will be better explained with the electrician for whom you have requested. The reason for this is that there are different reasons why one may request an EICR inspection. For example, if you are looking to purchase an older property. You may need an inspection report to determine how much work is required to ensure the electrical system is in a safe condition.
The same is applied to the purchase of a new property. You may require a full EICR inspection to ensure the entire system has been installed in accordance with construction and government requirements.
Past inspections would have been what was called a Periodic Inspection Report (PIR). However, this report format has since been superseded with what is now called the EICR.
Landlords will require EICR to comply with legislative requirements. These are to ensure that various landlord services are met and that tenants are aware of the condition of the property that they are renting. Current guidelines state that rental properties EICR documents are valid for five years. However, it also recommends it is renewed each tenancy agreement or renewal.
Privately owned properties are not legally required to have EICRs conducted on their property. However, it is advisable that a new report for the property be generated every ten years.
Business owners are also legally obligated to provide EICR reports. They are responsible for the welfare of their employees, customers, or tenants. Prosecution is possible, should any harm come to anyone exposed to dangers presented by the electrical system on the premises.
What is a PAT Test?
A PAT or Portable Appliance Test ensures that the portable appliances used in your business are in a safe condition. This legislation was put into effect to ensure that companies conform to the Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974, Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989, Provision and Use of Work Equipment regulations of 1998 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work regulations of 1999.
PAT laws apply to all employers, landlords or self-employed individuals. This is to ensure that all portable electrical appliances and devices are safe in a safe condition and to ensure they are used in the manner for which they are intended.
The test ensures that all items that are deemed as portable, are deemed safe to use as such a device.
Getting the right Electricians
There are many hidden dangers that can be present in any electrical system. These systems are almost always hidden behind something. Therefore, identifying the problems require expertise. Not to mention working on a live system. Which is extremely dangerous.
Only experienced, qualified, and registered electricians should work on an electrical system. This not only ensures that the job gets done, but that it is done safely for everyone involved. 3nergys have highly skilled electricians that have extensive experience in both residential and commercial properties.