On average, an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) takes between 1.5 to 4 hours for a standard domestic property. A 1-bedroom flat typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, while a larger 4-bedroom house can take up to 5 hours. For commercial properties, the inspection can take anywhere from a full day to several weeks, depending on the scale and complexity of the electrical system.
Estimated EICR Testing Times by Property Size
To give you a clearer idea of what to expect, here is a general breakdown of how long an EICR takes based on property size:
| Property Type | Estimated Duration |
| 1-Bedroom Flat | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| 2 to 3-Bedroom House | 2 – 3.5 hours |
| 4+ Bedroom House | 3.5 – 5 hours |
| Small Commercial Unit | 3 – 5 hours |
| Large Commercial / Industrial | 1+ days |
4 Key Factors That Affect EICR Duration
Testing times are not set in stone. The exact length of your appointment will depend on a few variables unique to your building:
- Number of Circuits: The more circuits on your consumer unit (fuse board), the longer the test will take. Electricians generally allocate about 30 minutes per circuit to ensure nothing is rushed.
- Accessibility: Your electrician needs clear access to sockets, light switches, and the main consumer unit. If they have to spend time moving heavy furniture or navigating cluttered rooms, the test will take longer.
- Age and Condition of Wiring: Older electrical systems, or systems that have been poorly maintained, usually require more thorough investigation. If the inspector finds faults mid-test, they will need extra time to accurately diagnose and code them (C1, C2, or C3).
- Domestic vs. Commercial Use: Commercial properties have vastly more complex wiring routes, higher-voltage installations, and heavier safety requirements than residential homes, drastically increasing testing time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will the power be turned off during the test?
Yes. To ensure safety, the electrician must perform “dead testing,” which involves disconnecting the power. The main power to the property is usually turned off for about 15 to 30 minutes, and individual circuits will experience brief outages throughout the inspection.
Can I stay in the property during the EICR?
Absolutely. You just need to be prepared for the temporary losses of power, so it is a good idea to save any work on your computer and avoid using heavy appliances while the electrician is working.
How long does it take to get the EICR certificate?
Once the physical test is complete, the electrician must compile their findings into the official report. You will typically receive your digital EICR certificate within 24 to 48 hours following the inspection.
For an appointment or quote for an EICR for your property do give one our local Bath electricians a call on 01225 729005