Electrical safety and fixed-wire testing
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require electrical systems to be maintained so far as reasonably practicable to prevent danger. Fixed-wire installations are inspected and tested with an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR); IET guidance recommends every five years for offices and shops, and private rented homes must be tested at least every five years by law.
The law behind it
- Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
- BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) and IET Guidance Note 3
- Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020
What is due and when
| Check | Frequency |
|---|---|
| EICR fixed-wire test — offices and shops | Every five years (IET recommendation) |
| EICR fixed-wire test — industrial premises | Every three years (IET recommendation) |
| EICR — private rented homes | At least every five years (legal requirement) |
| Portable appliance inspection and testing | Risk-based, depending on equipment and use |
Remedial work coded C1 or C2 on an EICR should be completed and recorded promptly.
Official source: HSE — Electrical safety at work. This page summarises the guidance; it is not legal advice.
Have it handled
We schedule, carry out and record these checks as part of mechanical and electrical maintenance, with every certificate held in one compliance record.
Other statutory obligations
Pearl Lemon Facilities Management