Understanding Electrical Test Certificates and Their Importance

Still don't have an electrical test certificate? Wondering why such a document is recommended when selling your home or renting out a property? Here are all the basics you need to know.

An electrical test certificate comes in two types. According to the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting, these are (1) Electrical Installation Certificates or EICs and (2) Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificates or MEIWCs. The type of certification or test that you need will depend on the kind of installation work carried out in your property.

You will need an EIC or EICR if the following conditions are met:

●        A new electrical installation has been installed or if a complete rewire has been carried out

●        One or more new circuits has been added to an existing electrical installation

●        One or more existing circuits have been modified or extended

An EICR is recommended for HMO or domestic properties every five years because electrical installations deteriorate, whether frequently used or not.

Part 2 Definitions of BS 7671 states that you will need a MEIWC if the following conditions are met:

●        A minor alteration was made to an existing circuit, but the protective device was not changed

●        An addition was made to an existing circuit (i.e. installation of new socket-outlets, installation of lighting points to an existing circuit, and the relocation of a light switch.)

In other words, if you or a qualified electrician did any electrical work that "does not extend to the provision of a new circuit" then you will need a MEIWC as proof that your installation meets the standards and has been properly tested.

Both tests or certificates are legal requirements for landlords or property owners. Non-compliance can lead to a hefty fine and even imprisonment in the case of fire and injuries. In fact, it may even lead to imprisonment if the authorities find out that the property owner has neglected their legal obligations. Both tests also help you determine potential problems before they become worse. This could save you money on expensive repairs.

Whatever kind of electrical test certificate you need, make sure to hire a competent and experienced electrician to carry out the test. See to it that you are choosing the electricians registered with the NICEIC and NAPIT.

About the Author

I am James Livingstone the owner of Trade Facilities Services, we provide electrical certificates and electrical testing in London, Essex and Kent at reasonable and fair prices. The company is fully insured, and all electricians are qualified and are members of either NAPIT or the NICEIC. We believe in publishing the correct information for our consumers to ensure they get value for money.