When it comes to factors that affect the cost of an EICR, there are normally several variables that come into play as an industry standard:
- Age of the Electrical Wiring: An older building with outdated wiring may require a more detailed inspection, potentially increasing the EICR cost for some providers. Conversely, a newly-built structure with modern electrical appliances and wiring might cost less.
- The Number of Electrical Appliances and Circuits: A property with multiple electrical circuits and appliances will take more time and effort to inspect than one with fewer electrical components.
- Regional Variations in Pricing: Prices can fluctuate based on geographical location due to differences in local market rates and cost of living.
However, Hexo does things differently. Our prices for domestic properties are fixed based on the number of bedrooms, which includes up to 8 circuits. Any additional circuits over 8 are charged at a fixed rate of £15 + VAT per circuit.
For commercial properties, the cost per circuit is fixed upfront based on the size and complexity of the installation. Larger installations typically attract a lower circuit cost, while more complex installations may have a slightly higher cost. But the key point is that Hexo provides a fixed circuit rate agreed upon at the outset rather than increasing costs later.
Our circuit rates for commercial properties can start as low as £9 + VAT, but will typically start from £10 each + VAT.
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is not included in the EICR inspection. PAT testing involves checking any portable electrical appliances and is a separate service.
Experience and Qualifications of the Electrician
When you look at other providers in the industry, the electrician’s qualifications and experience are vital in determining the EICR cost.
Hiring a highly experienced electrician with relevant qualifications, such as certifications from the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) or The National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers (NAPIT) or the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA), will ensure that the EICR is conducted correctly and thoroughly.
Experienced electricians may charge a premium for their services, but their expertise can help avoid potential electrical issues down the line, thus providing better long-term value.
Qualified electricians will be certified and hold a valid electrical certificate that attests to their skills and knowledge in performing thorough EICR assessments.
While that might be a common practice in the industry, working towards your EICR with Hexo guarantees you fixed prices influenced only by the type of your property and criteria specific to residential or commercial properties.
It is important to note that having an EICR conducted by a qualified electrician isn’t just about getting a piece of paper; it’s about ensuring that your electrical installations are safe and meet the necessary standards.
Electricians with the right qualifications and experience have the knowledge and skills to spot potential issues or hazards, ensuring your commercial property stays electrically safe. You can learn more about the fixed wire testing prices on our website.
Location and Availability of the Electrician
The location and availability of the electrician affect costs for Hexo, but the prices stay the same for you.
But when you explore other options in the industry, it’s often one of the factors affecting the cost of the EICR. Electricians based far from your property might charge extra for travel time and expenses. Similarly, an electrician with a high workload may charge more due to the demand for their services.
The time required to conduct the inspection and perform any necessary repair work can also affect the electrician’s availability. A comprehensive EICR on a large commercial property can take several days, which could mean the electrician cannot take on other jobs during that time.
This might be reflected in the cost of the EICR. In some cases, remedial electrical works might be required, influencing both the time and cost.
This will not be the case with Hexo, our in-house inspectors and remedial engineers can be booked, normally within a few days, for even the most complex inspections.
Rental Properties and EICR
What Factors Affect the Cost of an EICR in rental properties? The cost dynamics of obtaining an EICR can be slightly different, primarily driven by property size and electrical system complexity.
The legal obligations that landlords and tenants must meet concerning EICRs in rental properties also have an impact.
Landlords are responsible for putting electrical safety first, ensuring their properties comply with necessary electrical safety regulations and maintaining an up-to-date EICR.
Average Cost for a Rental Property EICR
The average cost of conducting an EICR on a rental property can vary significantly depending on multiple factors.
The property’s size and the electrical system’s complexity can contribute to the final cost. Other companies might also take the system’s age into consideration. Larger properties with complex, older electrical systems will invariably cost more to inspect than smaller properties with newer, simpler systems.
Potential repairs or upgrades needed to bring the system up to safety standards can also substantially affect the total EICR cost when working with other industry providers. It’s worth noting that the cost may fluctuate depending on the location and availability of qualified electricians with most providers.
This doesn’t apply to Hexo, as here we will offer you a fixed circuit rate in advance, so what you get quoted at the start of the job is what you will pay.
Different Requirements for Landlords and Tenants for Rental Properties
Landlords have different obligations concerning EICRs compared to tenants. Landlords must complete an EICR every five years or when a new tenant moves in. However, a change of tenancy does not generally invalidate an existing EICR certificate.
Providing tenants with proof of a periodic inspection is also a landlord’s responsibility. Various laws apply in the UK, including London and the South East, where Hexo mostly operates, emphasising the importance of maintaining a landlord’s electrical safety certificate.
Electrical Installation Considerations
The electrical systems’ size and complexity are key factors affecting EICR cost. However, other companies in the industry might also be interested in age and required repairs or upgrades, which could significantly impact the EICR’s cost.
The situation’s urgency and regional regulations are additional factors that cannot be overlooked.
Before a comprehensive EICR, electricians often conduct visual inspections to assess the property’s electrical systems’ general condition.
This preliminary check can help them identify any immediately apparent issues, which can inform the subsequent, more detailed inspection.
At Hexo we do not normally need to survey before an EICR, saving you cost.
Size and Complexity of the System to be Tested
The size and complexity of the tested system directly influence the cost of an EICR. Larger and more complex electrical systems require more inspection time, potentially increasing the inspection’s cost.
Key elements to consider when working with some of the certificate providers include:
- Age of the property’s electrical installation
- Number of electrical appliances and circuits
- The complexity of the consumer unit and fuse box
- Presence of any faults or potential hazards
It’s also essential to factor in the urgency of the situation. For instance, if a property has been experiencing persistent electrical issues, an immediate or emergency EICR may be required, attracting a higher cost.
This is a key consideration when thinking about electrical testing. Complex systems can cause costs to rise, even half way through a project.
Here at Hexo, we consider all of these elements at the start to provide you with a secure, guaranteed circuit rate to guard against surprise cost increases. This sets us apart within the industry.
Age of the Property’s Electrical Systems
The age of the property’s electrical systems can significantly affect the EICR cost. Older systems often require more thorough inspections and potential repairs or upgrades, which increases the overall cost of the EICR for other companies that conduct inspections.
Factors indicating an older system include the property’s age and the last time the electrical system was updated.
It’s important to remember that regional regulations can influence these costs. Different areas may have unique regulations or standards for electrical installations, which could impact the inspection process and, consequently, the overall cost of the EICR.
One of the main advantages of working with the professional team from Hexo is that you don’t need to worry about regional aspects. Our prices are fixed, and we can always provide you with a bespoke quote if you require further assistance.
Required Repairs or Upgrades on the System
EICRs often uncover necessary repairs or upgrades that must be made to the system to ensure electrical safety and compliance with regulations.
These involve replacing old wiring, updating outdated consumer units, or addressing identified hazards.
Several factors might necessitate repairs or upgrades, such as:
- The age of the property’s electrical systems
- The complexity of the system to be tested
- Potential hazards or faults found during the inspection
The costs associated with these repairs or upgrades can vary widely, making it a significant factor in the overall EICR cost from other certificate providers. It is crucial to address any issues promptly to avoid penalties and ensure the property’s safety.
Consumer Unit/Fuse Box/Light Fittings/Circuits/Faults
During an EICR, an electrician will comprehensively inspect all areas of the property’s electrical system.
This checks that the whole electrical installation within the property is safe, which is especially critical in commercial settings where the installation can be complex and running at high voltage.
This in-depth inspection includes the:
- Consumer Unit: This is the hub of your electrical system, where electricity is distributed around the property. The condition of the consumer unit can significantly influence the electrical system’s safety and the EICR cost. In our post Understanding the EICR Procedure, you can learn more about how we handle this during an EICR.
- Light fittings are inspected to ensure they are correctly installed and safe to use. Any issues found with the fittings might require remedial work.
- Circuits are tested for their integrity and safety. Any faulty circuits identified will need repair.
- Potential faulty wiring can be a significant safety hazard, and rectifying them can increase the EICR cost.
However, keep in mind that Portable Appliance Testing is a standalone procedure and isn’t a part of obtaining an EICR certificate.
These inspections are crucial to ensure that these areas of your electrical system are in good condition and pose no risk of injury.
What Factors Affect the Cost of an EICR in Commercial Properties
Commercial properties pose unique challenges regarding EICR inspections, which can significantly impact costs.
Firstly, commercial properties often have larger, more complex electrical systems than residential ones. This includes more extensive wiring networks, electrical appliances and circuits, and complex consumer units.
Secondly, insurance companies often require confirmation of electrical safety. After the EICR inspection, the electrician will produce an electrical safety report. This document details the state of the property’s electrical installations and outlines any necessary remedial work. The process of obtaining this report can add to the cost.
In the end, several factors contribute to the complexity of the consumer unit, which could increase the total cost of the inspection.
Unlike many other providers, we consider these factors at the outset, and will provide you with a fixed circuit rate when quoting.
You can visit our Commercial Electrical Testing page for a more in-depth understanding of how we handle commercial properties.
Frequently Asked Questions About EICRs
What is the average cost of EICR?
The average cost of an EICR can vary significantly depending on many factors, such as the size and complexity of the property’s electrical systems. Other industry providers might also consider the experience and availability of the electrician and the property’s location. Additional costs may also arise from necessary repairs or upgrades. You can find fixed costs from Hexo by visiting our Fixed Wire Testing Prices page.
Does EICR apply to commercial property?
Yes, an EICR applies to commercial properties as well. Businesses must ensure their premises meet the required safety standards. Commercial properties often have more extensive and complex electrical systems than residential properties, affecting the cost and time required for the inspection. To learn more about this, check out our Commercial Electrical Testing page.
Is EICR compulsory for commercial landlords?
Yes, EICRs are compulsory for commercial landlords. They are legally responsible for ensuring that electrical installations in rented properties are safe when tenants move in and maintain them in a safe condition throughout the tenancy.
Do businesses need an EICR certificate?
Businesses need an EICR certificate to demonstrate that their electrical installations and appliances are safe. This is not only a legal requirement in many regions, but it’s also a critical part of ensuring the safety of employees and customers. However, we at Hexo provide the same rates wherever you are in London and the South East. You can learn more about the requirements for landlords on our Landlord Electrical Safety Certificate page.