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Electrical Background

Test and Inspection

Steve Michie can professionally test inspect and certify your electrical installation a inspection test and electrical condition report for £75

Electrical Condition reports

Electrical installation certificates

Minor works certificates

Domestic fire alarm Certificate

Commercial fire alarms

Electrical Condition Report

A complete electrical condition report takes a least 2 hour with at least 30 minutes to complete the report this involves  a visual inspection of the electrical installation with at least  10% of the sockets and fittings being removed .

All lamps and  appliances are then removed from the circuits and the following test are carried out on every circuit

  1. Insulation resisistance
  2. earth loop impedance
  3. rcd Trip times
  4. Ring continuity (only on ring circuits)
  5. R1 + R2 Resistance test

A Electrical condition report is then completed which states whether the electrical installation is in a satisfactory or unsatisfactory condition, The report will also detail any observed damage or deterioration and list any items that do not comply with current Standards, this report is normally 8-10 pages and very detailed.

For the complete report we charge a fixed fee of £75.00 . we will also provide you with a free no obligation quote to correct any non compliance items.

Electrical Testing

FAQ’s

Who should carry out a periodic inspection?

Periodic inspection and testing should be carried out only by electrically competent persons, such as registered electricians.

When does a periodic inspection need to be carried out?

It is recommended that periodic inspection and testing is carried out at the following times:

  • for tenanted properties, every 5 years or at each change of occupancy, whichever is sooner
  • at least every 10 years for an owner-occupied home
  • at least every 5 years for a business

The Landlords and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords of properties with short leases to keep the electrical wiring in repair and in proper working order. We recommend landlords arrange for periodic inspection and testing to be carried out by a registered electrician at the relevant intervals shown above.

Periodic inspection and testing of the electrics should be carried out more frequently on the places and premises listed here

  • 3 years for a caravan
  • 1 year for a swimming pool

Is surface wiring permitted?

Yes, provided it is installed in accordance with the British Standard 7671 (Requirements for Electrical Installations – IEE Wiring Regulations). This is the national safety standard for electrical wiring. The standard requires that all wiring is installed in such a way that damage from impact, abrasion and corrosive substances is avoided.

Does all redundant wiring have to be removed?

When an electrical installation is rewired, it is good practice to remove redundant wiring. If this is not possible, any redundant wiring must be permanently disconnected from any electrical supply so that it doesn’t present a risk.

When do I need a rewire?

There are no set guidelines as to when a property should be rewired. Just because your wiring’s old, doesn’t mean it’s unsafe. Many factors can affect the wear and tear of your electrical installation, including the materials used and how your property has been used.

We would advise that PIRs be carried out on owner-occupied properties at least every 10 years and every five years in rented accommodation. The test will certify whether the electrics in a property are safe and tell you if anything needs upgrading. You should carry out regular checks around the house on the condition of your cables, switches, sockets and other accessories. If you notice anything unusual – burn marks on plugs and sockets, sounds of ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling), fuses blowing or circuit-breakers tripping – get a registered electrician to check your electrics as soon as possible.
As a landlord, what responsibility do I have in relation to the electrics in a property that I intend to let?
You have a duty of care to your tenant and must ensure that the installation is safe when they enter the property and is maintained throughout their tenure.

The Landlords and Tenants Act (1985) requires that the electrical installation in a rented property is:

  • safe when a tenancy begins and
  • maintained in a safe condition throughout the tenancy.

We recommend that in order to comply with this Act, you get a registered electrician to carry out a Periodic Inspection Report (PIR) on any property you intend to let before getting tenants in. This will certify whether the electrics are safe and tell you if anything needs upgrading.

I am a Landlord, how often should I have an inspection carried out in my property?

If you own an HMO, you have a legal obligation to have a Periodic inspection Test (PIR) carried out on your property every five years.

If your property is not an HMO, then you are not legally obliged to get your installation tested on a periodic basis. However, we recommend that you have a full PIR carried out every five years or on change of tenancy – whichever comes first.

Our guidance is based on legal obligations set out in The Landlords and Tenant Act (1985) and the above information as been taken from. http://www.esc.org.uk/public/guides-and-advice/faqs/

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