To keep employees and tenants safe, landlords should complete EICR tests for their commercial properties. This blog will explore everything you need to know about EICRs including why they should be performed and who is responsible for them.
What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), also known as fixed wire testing, is a formal inspection of the electrical installations within a property. This should be performed for commercial properties, as it ensures the occupants of the property are kept safe.
This assessment identifies any harm, faults or potential decay that could pose a risk to occupants. Without regular inspection, electrical issues can go unnoticed, potentially resulting in serious consequences such as fires, electrocution, and faults. Regular EICR testing helps ensure all faults are promptly identified and addressed, keeping the property compliant and its occupants safe.
Who is responsible for an EICR on commercial property?
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, commercial property owners have a legal obligation to ensure the safety of electrical installations. Conducting regular EICR assessments helps property owners meet these statutory obligations.
However, once a tenant takes possession of the premises, the tenant is typically responsible for conducting EICRs, as condition of the lease.
What are the key responsibilities of owners and landlords regarding EICR?
Landlords have a few responsibilities when it comes to commercial property EICRs, including:
- Ensuring the health and safety of employees and/or tenants.
- Arranging timely repairs after any hazards or faults are identified.
A qualified and registered electrician must carry out the EICR to ensure legal compliance and safety standards are met. Their responsibilities include:
- Adhering to correct procedures when performing EICR tests.
- Identifying potential electrical hazards within the property.
- Communicating any findings to the landlord that were found during the test.
Is an EICR a legal requirement for commercial property?
While EICRs aren’t a legal requirement, it’s highly recommended to complete one. When you obtain an EICR you’ll be able to clearly demonstrate that your commercial property’s electrical installations have been well maintained to keep occupants safe.
What are the requirements of an EICR?
As a landlord, there are a few best practices and legal requirements you must adhere to when completing an EICR:
1. A duty of care
Landlords and business owners have a legal responsibility to provide a safe environment for their employees and tenants.
2. Electrical Safety Compliance
All electrical installations, such as individual appliances and electrical wiring must meet current safety regulations. An EICR assesses whether your system complies with these standards.
3. Regular Inspections
When conducting inspections it’s recommended that commercial properties are inspected every three years and industrial premises are inspected every 5 years. However, this will vary depending on the age and condition of the electrical installation within a building.
What are the consequences if an EIRC isn’t completed for a commercial property?
Without a regular EICR being performed your electrics may not be properly maintained, leading to a number of consequences, such as:
- Financial Risk - Electrical faults can lead to property damage from fires, which can potentially invalidate your insurance claims if proper inspections were not carried out. This can lead to costly repairs.
- Risking employee and/or tenant safety - By not completing EICR tests you’re putting employees and/or tenants in danger as failing to maintain electrics can lead to serious life threatening situations such as fires and faults.
- Damage to Reputation - Neglecting electrical safety responsibilities can impact your professional reputation, especially if an incident occurs. This can lead to a loss of customers, clients, or staff.
For further guidance and support regarding commercial properties, get in touch with our Commercial Property Solicitors today.
