A periodic inspection will:
- Reveal if any of your electrical circuits or equipment are overloaded.
- Find any potential electric shock risks and fire hazards.
- Identify any defective electrical work.
- Highlight any lack of earthing or bonding.
A schedule of circuits is also provided, which is invaluable for a property.
How often is a periodic inspection required?
Your electrical installation should be inspected and tested as a minimum every:
- 10 years for an owner-occupied home.
- 5 years for a rented home.
Other times an inspection should be carried out
- When a property is being prepared for letting.
- Before selling a property or buying a previously occupied property.
What the inspection checks
The inspection takes into account all the relevant circumstances and checks:
- The adequacy of earthing and bonding.
- The suitability of the switchgear and controlgear—for example, an old fuse box with a wooden back.
- The serviceability of switches, sockets and lighting fittings. Items that may need replacing include older round-pin sockets, round light switches and fabric-coated cables hanging from ceiling roses.
- The type of wiring system and its condition. Black rubber cables were phased out in the 1960s, while lead- or fabric-coated cables are even older and may need replacing. Modern cables use longer-lasting PVC insulation.
- Whether sockets that may supply portable outdoor equipment are protected by a suitable residual current device (RCD).
- The presence of adequate identification and notices.
- The extent of any wear and tear, damage or other deterioration.
- Any changes in the use of the premises that have led, or may lead, to unsafe conditions.
Your Electrical Installation Condition Report
The competent person will issue an Electrical Installation Condition Report detailing any observed damage, deterioration, defects, dangerous conditions and any non-compliances with the present-day safety standard that might give rise to danger.
If anything dangerous or potentially dangerous is found, the overall condition of the electrical installation will be declared unsatisfactory. Remedial action will then be required without delay to remove the risks to people in the premises.