Mechanical - 01245 505300
Electrical - 01245 258004


Specialists in Mechanical & Electrical Services

Electrical Safety Testing & Inspection

A & L provide comprehensive electrical safety inspections, reporting and remedial repair services for commercial and industrial customers. All of our electricians are fully qualified NAPIT approved and all of our work is carried out in accordance to current BS 7671 IEE Wiring Regulations. We can advise you on your responsibility in accordance to Electricity At Work Regulations and suggest time intervals for the periodic inspections of your electrical installations. This enables you to keep up to date with your Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) previously known as Periodic Inspection Report (PIR). We are also able to carry out simultaneous Gas and Electrical Safety inspections saving you time and money.

UK legislation regarding the safe operation of electrical equipment is constantly evolving as is legislation relating to the safe protection of people in the work and home environment from any potential danger of electricity discharge.

Landlords, business and home owners are all obligated to comply with the regulations and stay within the law.

Letting Agents and Landlords must specifically comply with The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and ensure that any fixed electrical installation is safe at the start of any tenancy and is adequately maintained in a safe condition throughout the tenancy. This also includes the obligation to ensure that any portable electrical equipment is inspected and deemed safe by a skilled person.

All Businesses Need To Comply With -

All businesses need to comply to The Health and Safety Act 1974, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the IEE Wiring Regulations 17th Edition including The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 for Landlords and Lettings Agents. These regulations stipulate that every business has a legal obligation to carry out regular periodic inspections of their electrical installations. The new Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) replaces the previous Periodic Inspection Report (PIR). Any infraction can lead to penalties and/or prosecution.

Periodic Inspection / Electrical Installation Condition Report

What is a Periodic Inspection?

A periodic inspection is the inspection of an existing electrical installation to identify any deficiencies against UK legislation for electrical installations.

What is the difference between periodic inspection report and electrical installation condition report?

A Periodic Inspection Report (PIR) was the name previously given to the findings of a periodic inspection. The new named report “Electrical Installation Condition Report” (EICR) only differs to its predecessor by its format for completion and name.

What does a periodic inspection test look for? A periodic inspection will:
  • Reveal if any of your electrical circuits or equipment are overloaded.
  • Find any potential electric shock risks and fire hazards.
  • Identify any defective electrical work.
  • Highlight any lack of earthing or bonding.

Tests are also carried out on wiring and fixed electrical equipment to check that they are safe. A schedule of circuits is also provided, which is invaluable for a property.

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

    PAT / Portable Appliance Testing

    What is portable appliance testing (PAT)

    Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual examination but some types of defect can only be found by testing. However, it is essential to understand that visual examination is an essential part of the process because some types of electrical safety defect can’t be detected by testing alone.

    A relatively brief user check (based upon simple training and perhaps assisted by the use of a brief checklist) can be a very useful part of any electrical maintenance regime. However, more formal visual inspection and testing by a competent person may also be required at appropriate intervals, depending upon the type of equipment and the environment in which it is used

    How frequently must I have my equipment tested?

    The frequency of inspection and testing depends upon the type of equipment and the environment it is used in. For example, a power tool used on a construction site should be examined more frequently than a lamp in a hotel bedroom. For guidance on suggested frequencies of inspection and testing visits the HSE: Maintaining portable and transportable electrical equipment.

    What does a portable appliance test (PAT) involve?
      A PAT Test involves:
    • Visual inspection
    • Earth bond test
    • Flash testing
    • Load testing
    • Insulation resistance test
    • Earth leakage test
    • Functional test