Could Your Commercial Property be Overdue an EICR?
An EICR commercial property test is essential to ensure your business can continue unimpeded. Find out the dangers of ignoring electrical safety.
Ensuring that your property’s electrical system is safe and compliant is not just a legal obligation. It’s also critical for maintaining a secure environment for your employees, tenants, and customers. TS Electrical is your go-to for commercial electrician work, so we know better than most the importance of regular safety checkups.
In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about EICR for commercial properties. We’ll go over who is responsible, the legal requirements, and why regular EICR testing is crucial.
What is an EICR and Why is it Important?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an in-depth assessment of the condition of your electrics.
The report identifies any damage, deterioration, defects, or non-compliance with the current safety standards that might be present.
For commercial property owners, an EICR is more than just a box to tick. It’s a vital part of ensuring that the property’s electrical system is safe and reliable.
Failing to conduct regular EICR testing could lead to serious consequences, such as electrical shocks, fires, or even legal action in cases where harm is caused.
Who is Responsible for EICR Commercial Property checks?
When it comes to who is responsible for EICR commercial property checks, the answer is typically the commercial landlord or property owner.
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, it is the legal responsibility of the property owner or manager to ensure that the electrical installation in their commercial premises is safe to use. This is also backed up by the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
Additionally, the Landlord and Tenants Act states that landlords must keep the property and its electrical equipment in a safe condition throughout the tenancy. This means that EICR testing isn’t just a one-time task but a regular part of property management.
Legal Obligations for Commercial Property Owners
As a commercial property owner, you have a duty of care to your tenants, employees, and anyone who visits your premises.
Part of this duty of care includes ensuring that the property’s electrical installation is safe. The Work Act 1974 and the Work Regulations 1989 both make it clear that maintaining a safe working environment is a legal requirement.
EICR testing should be carried out by a qualified electrician who can provide a comprehensive report on the condition of your property’s electrical system.
This report will highlight any areas of concern and recommend necessary work. Neglecting these legal responsibilities can result in significant penalties, not to mention the health risks posed to occupants.
How Often Should EICR Testing Be Conducted?
EICR testing is not a one-off requirement; it should be conducted at regular intervals.
The frequency of these inspections can vary depending on the nature of the commercial property and its use. For instance, some commercial premises may require more frequent testing due to the type of equipment used or the age of the installation.
As a general guideline, EICRs should be carried out every five years for commercial properties. However, certain factors, such as the age of the electrical installation or any significant changes in the property, may necessitate more frequent inspections.
If you aren’t sure, consult with a qualified electrician like TS Electrical. We can determine the appropriate frequency of EICR testing for your specific property.
Consequences of Not Complying with EICR Requirements
Failing to comply with EICR requirements can have severe consequences. Not only could it lead to dangerous situations such as electrical shocks or fires, but it could also result in legal action against you as a commercial landlord or property owner.
In the event of an accident caused by faulty electrical installations, you could be held liable under the Safety at Work Act.
Moreover, insurance companies often require up-to-date EICRs to validate claims. Without a valid EICR, you may find that your insurance is voided, leaving you financially vulnerable in the event of damage or injury related to your property’s electrical system.
Conclusion
Getting an EICR commercial property check is not just about meeting legal obligations; it’s about protecting your property, your tenants, and your business.
By scheduling regular EICR testing with a qualified electrician, you can be confident that your property’s electrical installation is safe and up to code.
Don’t leave your duty of care to chance – make EICR testing a priority.
Contact TS Electrical today at 01424 277030 to schedule your EICR inspection. As the favourite choice for electricians in the East Sussex area, we’re the perfect connection for all of your electrical needs.
