Comprehensive Electrical Inspections in the UK

An electrical inspection is a critical process to ensure the safety and efficiency of electrical systems in residential and commercial properties. This service should be conducted by a registered Kent electrician and involves a thorough examination of electrical installations to comply with the standards set by the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671). These inspections are particularly important in older properties and are required at regular intervals or before buying or selling a home.

The Importance of Electrical Inspections

Regular electrical inspections help detect potential hazards such as overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, and issues with grounding that could lead to electric shocks or fires. In the UK, having a valid Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is essential for confirming that your property meets safety standards. An EICR involves testing various components like sockets, light fittings, circuit breakers, and earthing systems to ensure they function correctly.

Key Elements Checked During an Inspection

  • Wiring and Equipment: Technicians examine the condition and layout of electrical wiring, paying close attention to wear, damage, or outdated installations.
  • Protective Devices: The presence and functionality of circuit breakers and residual current devices (RCDs) are checked to ensure that they can handle power surges or faults effectively.
  • Earthing and Bonding: Proper earthing reduces the risk of electrical shock, making this a crucial aspect of the inspection.
  • Sockets and Fixtures: Inspectors test outlets and light fixtures to verify safe operation and identify signs of overheating or damage.

Frequency and Legal Obligations. The recommended frequency for electrical inspections varies based on property type:

  • Residential homes: Every 10 years or when there's a change in occupancy.
  • Rented properties: Every 5 years, with the EICR being a legal requirement for landlords.
  • Commercial buildings: Typically every 5 years or more frequently, depending on usage and regulations.

Post-Inspection Report

  • After the inspection, the electrician provides an EICR. This report details any observations related to non-compliance or safety risks, categorized by their severity. If urgent issues are found, immediate action is advised to rectify them.
  • Ensuring your property has an up-to-date EICR not only supports safety but also enhances its value and compliance with insurance policies.

Some of the things we have discovered during electrical inspections

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Main Earth Wire Undersized
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Exposed Live Wires Inside A Light Switch
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Exposed Copper And Loose Wires At Main Switch

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Mains Wiring Should Never Be Taped Up
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Old Rewireable Fuse Board Taped Up Ready To Collapse
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Warning Card: Missing Main Bonding