Eco Electrics - Inspection and Testing

The 'Electricity at Work Regulations 1989' in Regulations 4(1) and 4(2) lay down the requirement to ensure that an electrical installation should be designed, installed, constructed and maintained in a safe manner at all times. The basis for periodic inspection and testing is derived from Guidance Note 3 of the 'IEE Wiring Regulations BS7671:2008'.

Inspection & Testing of an electrical installation generates a Periodic Inspection Report which is a condition report supplemented by testing results.

The Periodic Inspection Report will normally consist of:

Client information and details of the installation
Supply characteristics and Earthing arrangements
Observation & Recommendations
Extent & Limitations of Testing
Summary of the Inspection
Inspection & Test Schedules

The Inspection of an electrical installation should be carried out in accordance with 712-01-03 of the 'IEE Inspection and Testing Guidance Note 3'. Conducted by competent qualified inspectors, the Inspection can highlight a significant percentage of defects on an electrical system. These may include (amongst others): exposed conductors or terminations: broken covers, conduits or trunking: the lack of earthing on conductive parts and inadequate support or damage to cables.

When is a periodic inspection needed?

It is recommended that periodic inspection and testing is carried out at least every:

10 years for a domestic installation
5 years for a commercial installation, Includes HMO's (Houses in Multi Occupation)
3 years for caravans
1 year for swimming pools

Other instances when a periodic inspection should be carried out are:

when a property is being prepared to be let
prior to selling a property or when buying a previously occupied properties