Ilford Electrical ServicesIlford
EICR for Buying or Selling Ilford IG1
Buying or selling a home often raises questions about the wiring.
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- Covering Greater London
- EICR and related services
Know the state of the wiring before the sale goes through
An EICR, or electrical installation condition report, records the condition of the fixed electrical installation so everyone knows where they stand. Ilford Electrical Services offers EICR for Buying or Selling across Ilford, Barkingside, Gants Hill, Seven Kings and Goodmayes.
What happens, step by step
A typical EICR for a sale or purchase runs like this.
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| Enquiry | You send the enquiry form with the property type, rough size and whether you are buying or selling. |
| Arranging access | A suitable visit is agreed, including access to the consumer unit and all rooms. |
| Inspection and testing | The electrician inspects and tests the fixed electrical installation, circuit by circuit. |
| Findings explained | Any observations and their codes are explained in plain language. |
| Report issued | You receive the written condition report with the overall result. |
| Next steps | If remedial work is needed, it is discussed and priced separately. |
Steps can vary with the property and what the inspection finds.
What an EICR involves when you buy or sell
An EICR is an inspection and a round of electrical testing carried out on the fixed electrical installation. That covers the consumer unit, wiring, sockets, light fittings, and earthing and bonding. The number of circuits in the property shapes how much there is to check.
The findings are written up as a condition report EICR with observations coded by seriousness, and an overall result of satisfactory or unsatisfactory. People sometimes call it an electrical safety certificate, but it is a report on condition, not a pass certificate for the house.
The installation is judged against current electrical safety standards. Older installations may fall short of modern safety standards without being dangerous, and the report should make that distinction clear.
When to book an EICR for a sale or purchase
Sellers often book before listing, so any issues can be dealt with without the pressure of a buyer waiting. Buyers tend to ask for one after an offer is accepted, or when a survey points to older wiring, a worn consumer unit or signs of DIY work.
A report is not always demanded in a sale, but buyers, solicitors and mortgage lenders may ask for one. One of the frequently asked questions from sellers is whether a report will hold things up. Booking early is the best way to avoid that.
If the building is a shop, office or other commercial premises, say so when you enquire. Commercial properties can have larger and more complex electrical installations, and there is a separate Commercial EICR service.
What affects the cost, and what is separate
The price of an EICR depends on the size of the property, the number of circuits, the age and type of the installations, and how easy it is to reach the consumer unit, sockets and fittings. Furnished homes, or properties with lots of outbuildings and extra supplies, usually mean more to check.
The report itself is one job. Any remedial work it finds, such as replacing an outdated consumer unit or repairing faulty wiring, is a separate job with its own scope and cost. You decide what to do with the findings, and in a sale that is often a conversation between buyer and seller.
Choosing who carries out the inspection
An EICR should be done by a qualified electrician who is competent in inspection and testing, not just general electrical work. Ask what they are qualified to do and whether they can show proof. Reputable certified electricians will be happy to explain this.
Also ask what the report will cover, whether any parts of the property will not be inspected, and how the findings will be explained to you. A buyer or lender is more likely to accept a clear, detailed report.
Questions about this
Do all rented properties need an EICR?
Rules for private rented homes differ between the UK nations and can change. Landlords should check GOV.UK for the current position. A Landlord EICR is a separate service from this page.
Where can I get a free electrical safety check?
A proper inspection and electrical testing takes a qualified person's time, so be cautious about free offers. Ask exactly what a free check covers and whether you would receive a written report.
How long does it take to complete an EICR test?
It depends on the size of the property, the number of circuits and how easy everything is to reach. A small flat takes less time than a large house. Give the property details when you enquire.
How much does an EICR cert cost?
The cost depends on the size and age of the installation and the number of circuits. The inspection is priced separately from any repairs it finds, so use the enquiry form to describe your property.
What you get
Useful to buyers and sellers
Sellers can find problems before a buyer does. Buyers can see what they are taking on. Either way you get facts, not guesses.
Related services available
Landlord EICR, Commercial EICR, Consumer Unit Upgrades and general electrician work are also offered if the report leads to further jobs.
Covering your area
We serve Ilford, Barkingside, Gants Hill, Seven Kings and Goodmayes.