This week, Connor and I stepped away from our normal day-to-day electrical work to attend further inspection, testing and verification training at Kelly Energy Training.
The course has given us an opportunity to refresh our existing knowledge, strengthen the processes we use when carrying out Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs), and make sure our inspection and testing work continues to meet the standards expected within today’s electrical industry.
At Tack Electrical Solutions, training is not something we undertake merely to tick a box. We invest heavily in the ongoing development of our team because electrical knowledge cannot stop when somebody completes their original qualification. Regulations change, technology develops and the equipment being installed in our customers’ homes and businesses continues to evolve.
We recently had an EICR enquiry for a mid-century 3 bed terrace in Borders Lanes, Loughton. The landlord had just finished redecoration prior to new tenants moving in and the letting agent we regularly work with wanted to have a chat with us about the changes to the laws relating to EICR’s and see what our thoughts on the matter were.
What are the new laws surrounding EICR’s that are coming into effect in October?
In order to eradicate the culture of cowboy electricians who complete a quick illegitimate test of the electrics and tick them all off as safe, new regulations are being introduced, which mean any electrician who wishes to carry out an EICR must be in receipt of a Level 3 certificate - this applies to all employees, whether that’s a subcontractor, or a sole trader. As well as being level 3 qualified, electricians must also have a minimum of 2 years experience in periodic inspection work documented. In order for insurance claims relating to EICRs to be covered by insurance providers, electricians must also provide proof of their level 3 certification.
Why are the rules and regulations for EICR’s changing?
Much like our motto here at Tack Electrical Solutions, they want to bring a little trust back to the trade. There is a problem within the industry with a small few cowboy electricians who heavily discount professional rates for an EICR by simply doing some quick visual inspections and slapping a C3 on the certificate, without actually knowing of any internal potentially dangerous issues. Remember, just because something is fine it doesn’t mean it is safe.
With experience in periodic inspection, it allows electricians to be able to fully justify and offer technically precise insights for the reason on their coding (C1, C2, C3).
Does this change the EICR rules for landlords in Loughton?
No, the new regulations don’t change the rules for landlord EICR’s - the sole purpose of the change is improving the standards required from electricians. The rule remains that under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 an EICR must be conducted every 5 years at least. A copy of the certificate must be given to their tenant and should the local authorities request one, them too.
Tack Electrical Solutions - Compliant and Thorough EICRs in Loughton
Following on from the new EICR rules, if you’re looking for an electrician with the relevant qualifications and experience, look no further. Tack Electrical Solutions are your local, trusted experts.
An EICR can be the difference between hidden dangerous electrical faults waiting to rear their head and a safe and legally compliant home for your tenants. Remember, just because it looks safe, doesn’t mean it is.
To enquire about our EICR services, either fill in our contact form or send us a message on whatsapp - we’d love to hear from you.
Tack Electrical Solutions - thank you for helping us make Loughton a little safer.
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