The Importance of Electrical Testing & Inspections for Your Property

Electrical installations are often out of sight — and therefore out of mind — until something goes wrong. But just like you’d service your boiler or have your car MOT’d, your home or business electrics also need regular check-ups. Without proper inspections, faults can go unnoticed, putting you, your family, tenants, or employees at risk.

At Bluerock Electrical, we’ve been carrying out Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) and safety inspections across Barnet and North London since 2006. These inspections aren’t just about ticking a box — they’re about ensuring safety, compliance, and long-term peace of mind.

Why Electrical Testing Matters

Electricity is safe when everything is working correctly — but even a small fault can lead to electric shock, fire, or costly damage if left unaddressed. Regular testing helps you:

• Spot problems early – before they turn into expensive repairs or safety hazards.

• Stay compliant with the law – especially if you’re a landlord or business owner.

• Protect your investment – by keeping wiring and equipment in good condition.

• Get peace of mind – knowing your electrics are safe for everyone who uses them.

Who Needs an EICR?

EICRs are recommended for almost every property type. Here’s how they apply to different situations:

Homebuyers

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make — don’t leave electrical safety to chance. An EICR can reveal hidden issues like outdated wiring, missing RCD protection, or overloaded circuits before you complete the purchase. This gives you the opportunity to negotiate repairs or factor costs into your budget.

Landlords

Since July 2020, landlords in England must have the electrical installations in their rental properties inspected at least every five years under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.

You must:

• Provide a copy of the report to tenants within 28 days

• Fix any urgent issues within 28 days (or sooner, if specified)

• Provide the report to your local authority if requested

Failing to comply can result in fines of up to £30,000 — so staying on top of inspections is essential.

Businesses

If you run a shop, office, or warehouse, electrical safety is a legal obligation under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Regular EICRs protect staff, customers, and your premises, and help avoid costly downtime caused by electrical failures.

What an EICR Covers

An EICR is a full “health check” of your property’s electrical installation. During the inspection, we will:

• Check wiring for deterioration or damage – including cables, sockets, switches, and distribution boards

• Test RCDs (Residual Current Devices) – life-saving devices that cut power in milliseconds during a fault

• Ensure circuits aren’t overloaded – preventing overheating and potential fire risk

• Identify risks of electric shock or fire – including loose connections, exposed wiring, or missing earthing

You’ll receive a clear, jargon-free report detailing whether your installation is Satisfactory (safe) or Unsatisfactory (work required).

Next Steps if Issues Are Found

If your EICR highlights problems, don’t panic. At Bluerock Electrical, we’ll:

• Provide a fair, transparent quote for any remedial work

• Carry out repairs or upgrades to bring your installation up to standard

• Re-test and issue an updated certificate once everything is safe

This end-to-end service means you stay compliant and avoid the hassle of coordinating multiple contractors.

How Often Should You Test?

• Owner-occupied homes – every 10 years (or with each change of occupancy)

• Rental properties – every 5 years or at the start of a new tenancy

• Commercial premises – typically every 3–5 years, depending on business type

• High-risk environments (e.g., swimming pools, workshops) – may need more frequent testing

Work with a Trusted Local Electrician

At Bluerock Electrical, we’ve been carrying out EICRs and safety inspections since 2006. Our NICEIC Approved status means all work is completed to the highest standards and fully certified.

We pride ourselves on:

• Clear, honest advice

• Flexible scheduling to minimise disruption

• Easy-to-read reports that tell you exactly what you need to know

📞 Stay compliant, avoid fines, and keep everyone safe.
Contact Bluerock Electrical today to book your EICR or safety inspection and enjoy peace of mind knowing your electrics are in expert hands.