We Test and Report on your Wiring Installation

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Fixed Wire Testing

Fixed wire testing is an inspection of the condition of an existing electrical installation, to identify (in order of priority) any deficiencies against the national safety standard for electrical installations.

Fixed wire testing will:

  • Reveal if any of your electrical circuits or equipment is overloaded.
  • Find any potential electrical shock risks and fire hazards in your electrical installation.
  • Identify any defective DIY electrical work.
  • Highlight any lack of earthing or bonding of metalwork to avoid shocks.

Tests are also carried out on wiring and associated fixed electrical equipment to check that it is safe.

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Testing and Reporting On Your Wiring Installation

Suitability of the switchgear and control gear

For instance, an old fuse box with a wooden back, cast iron switches or a mixture of such equipment is likely to need replacing.

The age of the wiring system and its condition

E.g. cables coated in black rubber- this material was phased out in the 1960s or cables coated in lead or fabric are even older and may need replacing (modern cables use PVC insulation).

Serviceability of equipment

E.g. switches, socket outlets and light fittings e.g. older round pin sockets, round light switches and braided flex hanging from ceiling roses to light fittings, black switches, sockets mounted in skirting boards may require replacing.

Provision of residual current devices

For socket outlets that reduce the risk of electric shocks may be used to plug in electrical equipment used outdoors.

Checking the adequacy of earthing and bonding

Extent of any wear and tear of cabling or sockets

Presence of adequate identification and notices.

Deficiencies in the installation caused by changes in the premises

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Why Test?

Every electrical installation deteriorates with use and age. It is important for the person responsible for the maintenance of the installation to be sure that the safety of users is not put at risk, and that the installation continues to be in a safe and serviceable condition.

According to Government statistics, each year on average 10 people die and about 750 are seriously injured in accidents involving unsafe electrical installations in the home or commercial premises.

 

 

How Often Should You Test?

It is recommended that fixed wire testing is carried out at least every:

10 years for a domestic installation

(5 years if the accommodation is rented)

3 years for caravans

5 years for a commercial installation

1 year for swimming pools

Other instances when a fixed wire testing should be carried out are:

prior to selling a property

When damage has been caused to the building

When a property is being prepared to be let to an individual or in a house of multiple occupancy (HMO)

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Have a question?

Your Fixed Wire Questions Answered

Fixed wire testing is essential for all commercial properties and must be carried out regularly in order to comply with legal requirements.

We also understand that property managers may have questions about fixed wire testing. That’s why we’ve created this short FAQ to answer some of your questions.

5-year electrical testing is when the electrical installation in a property is tested to make sure it is safe. Nearly one in five domestic fires in England are caused by faulty cabling and wiring. By getting your electrical installation tested regularly, you can reduce the risk of fire.

In summary, it is essential to get an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) or Fixed Wire Test, at a minimum, every 5 years (but ultimately as often as our inspector advises on your report).

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, it is also an employer's duty to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all employees. This includes ensuring all electrical equipment and installations are safe to use. Fixed wire testing is the best way to demonstrate compliance and ensure safety.