EICR and Electrical Safety for Commercial Property
Written by Scott Jones, founder of CommercialPropertyKiln · Last updated
Spot something wrong? Report an error. We reply within 48 hours.
The fixed electrical installation in a commercial building must be safe and maintained. An EICR is the usual way to evidence that it is.
What an EICR is
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an inspection of the fixed wiring by a competent electrician, reporting on its condition and flagging anything that needs attention. It is the standard evidence that the installation is safe.
How often
Commercial installations are typically inspected on a periodic basis, commonly around every five years, though the right interval depends on the type of installation, its use and its condition. Treat five years as a common benchmark rather than a fixed legal figure, and follow the recommended date on the report and the advice of your electrician.
Who is responsible
Responsibility for the fixed installation depends on the lease. The landlord usually retains the common and structural electrical systems, while tenants deal with their demised areas and their own equipment. On a full repairing lease more falls to the tenant, but confirm it in the lease.
Act on the findings
An EICR that identifies dangerous or potentially dangerous items should be acted on promptly. Keep the reports and evidence of remedial work. See the wider landlord obligations. Confirm the correct interval for your installation with a competent electrician.
How often does a commercial property need an EICR?
Commercial installations are typically inspected around every five years, though the right interval depends on the installation, its use and condition.
Who is responsible for the electrical installation?
It depends on the lease. The landlord usually keeps the common and structural electrical systems, while tenants deal with their demised areas.