What Happens During an EICR? A Step-by-Step Guide for Liverpool Property Owners

Every EICR begins with a comprehensive visual inspection of the entire electrical installation. Our NAPIT approved inspector examines the consumer unit or fuse board for signs of damage, overheating, corrosion or outdated components. We check that the board is properly labelled, that circuits are correctly identified, and that there is adequate spare capacity.

We then inspect all accessible wiring, looking for damaged insulation, exposed conductors, improper connections, and signs of ageing such as rubber or cloth insulation on older properties. Sockets, switches, light fittings and junction boxes are all examined for cracks, burn marks, loose connections and compliance with current standards.

Earthing and bonding arrangements are a critical part of the visual inspection. We verify that earth conductors are present, properly connected and of adequate size. Main equipotential bonding to gas and water services is checked, as is supplementary bonding in bathrooms and other special locations. Any deficiencies are noted for the report.

After the visual inspection, our inspector carries out a series of detailed electrical tests using calibrated equipment. The first test is continuity of protective conductors, which verifies that every socket, light fitting and appliance connection has a proper earth path back to the consumer unit.

Insulation resistance testing is performed next. This applies a high voltage to each circuit to check that the insulation around the wires is intact and not deteriorating. Low insulation resistance indicates moisture ingress, ageing cables, or damaged insulation — all of which can cause electric shocks or fires.

Polarity testing ensures that every socket and switch is wired correctly, with the live, neutral and earth conductors in the right places. Incorrect polarity is a serious safety hazard that can make metal parts of appliances live even when switched off. Finally, we test RCD functionality, earth fault loop impedance, and verify that circuit breakers are correctly rated for the circuits they protect.

Once all inspections and tests are complete, our inspector compiles the EICR document. Every observation is coded according to its severity: C1 means danger present and remedial action is required immediately; C2 means potentially dangerous and urgent remedial action is required; C3 means improvement is recommended but not immediately dangerous; and FI means further investigation is needed without delay.

The report includes a full description of each observation, its location within the property, and photographic evidence where appropriate. Test results for every circuit are recorded in a table showing continuity, insulation resistance, polarity and earth loop impedance values.

The overall assessment is either Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. A Satisfactory result means the installation is safe to use, although C3 recommendations may still be noted. An Unsatisfactory result means C1, C2 or FI observations have been identified and must be addressed before the installation can be considered safe.

If your EICR is Satisfactory with only C3 observations, no immediate action is required, though you may choose to address the recommendations at your convenience. If the report is Unsatisfactory, remedial work must be carried out to resolve all C1, C2 and FI observations.

At Conaty&Co., we do not just inspect and leave. We provide a clear, itemised quote for all remedial work identified in your EICR. Our NAPIT approved electricians can carry out the repairs, replacements and upgrades needed to bring your installation up to standard, and we issue a remedial completion certificate once the work is done.

For Liverpool landlords, we understand the 28-day remedial deadline and prioritise EICR follow-up work to ensure you remain legally compliant. We also update your EICR records and send reminders when your next inspection is due, so you never have to worry about lapsing certification.