An EICR is a hands-on inspection, not just a paperwork exercise. Here's what actually happens when we carry one out.
1. Visual inspection
We start by examining sockets, switches, the consumer unit and any accessible wiring for damage, poor workmanship or signs of overheating.
2. Dead testing
With the power isolated we test insulation resistance, continuity of protective conductors, and polarity. This catches faults that don't show up under normal use.
3. Live testing
With power restored we verify earth fault loop impedance and RCD operation to make sure protective devices will disconnect quickly enough in a fault.
4. The report
Every observation is graded C1 (danger present), C2 (potentially dangerous), C3 (improvement recommended) or FI (further investigation). A satisfactory report has no C1 or C2 codes.