At VCO Electrical, our qualified electricians carry out professional Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) across London. Each inspection follows the test methodologies outlined in BS 7671:2018 +A2:2022 and IET Guidance Note 3 (2022) to verify the ongoing safety and compliance of domestic, commercial, and industrial installations.
Purpose of an EICR
An EICR determines whether an electrical system remains safe for continued use. It highlights wear, damage, or non-compliances that could present a risk of electric shock, fire, or equipment failure. The report also ensures conformity with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, which require that all electrical systems be maintained in a safe condition.
Inspection and Testing Sequence
Our engineers carry out tests in the following order to ensure accuracy and prevent damage to connected equipment:
- Continuity of protective conductors – Low-resistance testing using 200 mA minimum test current to confirm bonding integrity.
- Ring circuit continuity – End-to-end and cross-connection readings to verify polarity and full ring integrity.
- Insulation resistance – 500 V DC testing between live conductors and earth; minimum acceptable values per circuit are ≥1 MΩ (domestic) and ≥0.5 MΩ (commercial).
- Polarity verification – Ensuring all switches and fuses operate on the line conductor only.
- Earth fault loop impedance (Zs) – Confirmed against the disconnection times specified in Table 41.3 of BS 7671.
- RCD testing – Trip-time and functional testing at ½ IΔn and IΔn, in accordance with manufacturer and product-standard requirements (Regulation 643.8). The 5 × IΔn test is applied where required, such as socket circuits ≤32 A.
- Prospective fault current (PFC) – Measurement of PSCC and PEFC to verify device breaking capacity.
Observation Codes and Classification
| Code | Meaning | Required Action |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present – risk of injury | Immediate isolation and rectification |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous condition | Urgent remedial work required |
| FI | Further investigation required | Conduct additional testing promptly |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | Advisory upgrade to improve safety |
Equipment and Calibration
Our engineers use modern, IEC 61557-compliant multifunction testers with current calibration certificates. Each instrument undergoes annual traceable calibration to maintain measurement accuracy and quality assurance. All readings are logged digitally and retained with the report.
Inspection Intervals
- Domestic rental properties – every 5 years or sooner if recommended by the previous inspection
- Owner-occupied homes – every 10 years
- Commercial installations – every 5 years (or per risk assessment)
- Industrial premises – every 3 years
Common London Observations
- Type AC RCDs installed on modern circuits containing electronic loads (should be Type A)
- Inadequate bonding to water and gas services (Reg. 544.1.1)
- Absence of surge protection (Reg. 443.4)
- Mixed-brand consumer unit components (Reg. 536.4.203)
- Thermal stress on high-load accessories in kitchens and offices
Reporting and Certification
Each client receives a full digital report including circuit schedules, test data, and detailed observation notes. Reports are delivered within 24 hours and stored securely for audit and insurance compliance. Where C1 or C2 observations are present, we provide quotations and perform remedial works before re-testing.
Why Choose VCO Electrical
- City & Guilds 2391-qualified inspection engineers
- Fully insured and NICEIC-approved contractor
- Accurate testing with traceable calibration
- Prompt reporting and digital documentation
- Trusted by London landlords, agents, and businesses
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical EICR take?
Most domestic inspections take 2–4 hours depending on circuit count, access, and condition. Commercial or multi-unit sites may require a full day or phased testing.
Do you need to power off the entire building?
No. Circuits are isolated sequentially to minimise disruption. Sensitive or critical equipment is identified and isolated safely before testing begins.
Can you repair faults during the same visit?
Yes — minor faults such as damaged accessories or loose terminations can often be corrected immediately, subject to client approval.
When is re-testing required?
Only when an installation has been significantly altered, or where the previous report recommends earlier inspection. Routine domestic rentals remain valid for five years.
Book an EICR in London
Ensure your installation meets current safety and regulatory standards. VCO Electrical delivers accurate, compliant EICR testing across all London postcodes with rapid certification turnaround.
Visit www.vcoelectrical.co.uk to request your inspection or speak to a qualified EICR electrician today.