Checklist
EICR Preparation Checklist
A practical EICR preparation checklist for landlords, employers and facilities managers — what to gather and arrange before the inspection to save time.
Good preparation makes an EICR faster, less disruptive and more accurate. Use this checklist before your inspection — it applies to homes, offices and commercial premises alike.
Before the visit
- Locate and provide access to all consumer units and distribution boards.
- Gather any previous EICRs, EICs and remedial certificates.
- Note the number of circuits and boards so the inspection can be scoped accurately.
- Identify critical systems (servers, refrigeration, security, medical or care equipment) that must not be switched off without notice.
- Nominate a point of contact who can authorise short power interruptions.
Access on the day
- Clear access to sockets, switches and accessories, including behind furniture and stored items.
- Ensure keys and access codes are available for locked rooms, risers and cupboards.
- Give tenants or staff notice of short power interruptions during dead testing.
Environment and safety
- Flag areas with special conditions (wet areas, external installations, hazardous zones).
- Note any known faults, tripping issues or previous incidents (fire, flood).
- Ensure the inspector can work safely — clear walkways and stable access to height where needed.
After the inspection
- Review the overall outcome (Satisfactory / Unsatisfactory) and the coded observations.
- Arrange remedial work for any C1, C2 or FI items with a competent person, and obtain certificates.
- Diarise the next inspection date and, across a portfolio, add it to a central compliance calendar.
- File the EICR and remedial certificates together as a complete record.
Working through this checklist before the engineer arrives typically shortens the time on site, avoids repeat visits, and helps ensure the report reflects the true condition of the installation.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to provide for an EICR?
Access to all distribution boards and circuits, previous reports and certificates if available, a point of contact who can authorise short power interruptions, and details of any critical systems that must not be switched off without notice.
How can I reduce the cost and time of an EICR?
Ensure clear access to the consumer unit and accessories, provide previous documentation, label anything you can, and agree isolation timings in advance. Good preparation reduces the time on site and avoids repeat visits.
This article provides general guidance and distinguishes legislation, British Standards and good practice. It is not legal advice. Always confirm the specific duties applying to your property and tenure.