How to Prepare Your Property for an EICR Inspection

Why Preparation Matters

A well-prepared property allows the electrician to complete the EICR faster, more thoroughly, and with fewer access issues. Preparation reduces the chance of FI (further investigation) codes caused by inaccessible areas, and ensures the report accurately reflects the installation's condition. It also demonstrates to tenants that you take their safety seriously.

Most preparation tasks take less than 30 minutes and can be done by the landlord, agent, or tenant with minimal guidance.

Access Requirements

The electrician needs access to every part of the electrical installation. This includes areas that are normally hidden or behind furniture.

• Ensure the consumer unit / fuse board is fully accessible — remove any boxes, coats, or items blocking the cupboard door
• Move furniture 30cm away from socket outlets on at least one wall per room
• Provide access to all loft spaces where wiring is present
• Unlock garden sheds, garages, and outbuildings with electrical supplies
• Remove panels covering any underfloor heating controls or junction boxes
• Ensure the electrician can reach the main earthing terminal (usually near the meter)

Tenant Communication

Good communication with tenants before the inspection prevents delays, protects relationships, and ensures the electrician can work efficiently.

• Give tenants at least 48 hours' notice of the inspection date and approximate duration
• Explain that power will be switched off intermittently for 10–20 minutes during dead testing
• Ask tenants to have sensitive electronics (computers, medical equipment) powered down during the visit
• Confirm that the electrician will need access to every room including bedrooms and bathrooms
• Provide the electrician's name and company for tenant reassurance
• Ask tenants to be present or arrange key access if they will be out

Documents to Have Ready

Having documentation available helps the electrician understand the installation history and can prevent FI codes for undocumented alterations.

• Previous EICR (if available) — helps the electrician identify changes since the last inspection
• Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) for any recent electrical work
• Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificates (MEIWCs) for small jobs
• Building control completion certificate for any notifiable work
• Plans or drawings showing cable routes (if available)
• List of any known issues or recent electrical problems

Day-of-Inspection Checklist

Run through this quick checklist on the morning of the inspection to ensure nothing is missed.

• Confirm the appointment time with the electrician by text or call
• Ensure parking is available near the property
• Check that all rooms are unlocked and accessible
• Verify the consumer unit is unobstructed
• Brief the electrician on any known issues or recent changes
• Be available by phone during the inspection for any questions