What is an EICR and do I need one?
Electrical compliance is a legal requirement for businesses in the UK. Whether you operate a warehouse in Crawley, manage office space in Redhill, or run a retail shop in Reigate, you must ensure your electrical systems are safe and regularly tested.
This guide explains how often commercial EICRs are required, what’s involved, and why it matters. Or if time is precise for you, check out the small introduction to the services we do provide and feel free to contact us with any queries.
What Is a Commercial EICR?
A Commercial EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a full inspection of a building’s electrical installation. It identifies:
Faulty wiring
Overloaded circuits
Fire hazards
Damaged accessories
Non-compliance with BS 7671
A certified commercial electrician must carry out the testing.
How Often Are Commercial EICRs Required?
According to UK electrical safety standards:
Offices: Every 5 years
Retail units: Every 5 years
Factories/industrial: Every 3 years
Construction sites: Every 3 months
Rented commercial properties: Every 5 years or change of tenant
Local councils, insurers and landlords may require more frequent testing.
Why Businesses Need Regular EICRs
1. Insurance Compliance
Most insurers require evidence of electrical testing after a claim.
2. Employee Safety
Faulty electrics are a leading cause of workplace fires in the UK.
3. Reduced Downtime
Identifying faults early prevents costly breakdowns and business interruptions.
4. Legal Requirements (Electricity at Work Regulations)
As a business owner or landlord, you must maintain safe electrical systems.
What Happens During a Commercial EICR?
We inspect:
Distribution boards
Cable insulation
Emergency lighting
Earthing & bonding
Sockets, switches & lighting
Machinery/commercial equipment supplies
Three-phase systems
You will receive a report marked:
Satisfactory
or
Unsatisfactory, with issues categorised (C1, C2, C3, FI)
We also provide a quotation for any remedial works required.
Commercial EICR Services Across Surrey & West Sussex
We support businesses in:
Horley, Gatwick, Crawley (Manor Royal), Redhill, Reigate, Dorking, East Grinstead, Salfords, Smallfield, Copthorne and surrounding areas of Surrey and Sussex.
Contact us to schedule commercial testing or request a maintenance plan.
