An Electrical Installation Condition Report is a planned assessment of an installation's condition within an agreed scope. It is different from an emergency callout: an EICR records inspection and test findings, while fault finding investigates a specific live symptom such as tripping, heat or power loss. TRACEFORM offers inspection, testing and EICRs for residential, landlord and commercial properties. If there is smoke, sparking, overheating or loss of power now, use the relevant fault service rather than waiting for a planned report.
When to arrange an EICR
An EICR may be requested to understand an installation's condition, support property management or meet a relevant rental or organisational requirement. The appropriate timing and scope depend on the property, previous records, use and the responsible person's obligations. We do not invent a universal interval or promise a particular outcome before inspection.
What the process involves
Before the visit, agree the premises, access, occupancy, known limitations and any existing records. Inspection and testing require suitable access and periods of isolation, so occupants and business users should be told in advance. The electrician records observations and test results within the agreed scope, then explains the report and any limitations.
Planned inspection is not emergency diagnosis
A condition report samples and assesses the installation against its scope; it is not designed simply to clear an active burning smell or restore a failed circuit. Conversely, a callout that identifies and repairs one fault does not assess the condition of the whole installation. Where both needs exist, urgent risk is addressed first and a planned inspection can follow.
Homes, landlords and commercial premises
A homeowner may want a condition assessment for an established property or before planned work. Landlords and property managers should coordinate tenant notice, access and available previous reports. Commercial duty holders should identify operational constraints, distribution arrangements and authorised contacts so isolation can be planned around the premises rather than improvised on arrival.
Report findings and remedial work
The report records the findings from the completed inspection and testing. If action is recommended, the electrician can explain priorities and the evidence behind them. Remedial work is a separate scope unless explicitly agreed. A report is not a guarantee that no future fault will occur, and inaccessible or excluded areas remain subject to recorded limitations.
