Homeowner Guide to Electrical Inspections: What's Involved, Who Needs Them, Why, and How Much Do They Cost
Electrical inspections are an essential part of ensuring the safety, efficiency, and compliance of your home's electrical systems. Whether you're a homeowner in Surbiton, Surrey or London, understanding the need for regular inspections is an important step in safeguarding your property and providing peace of mind for your family or tenants.
This guide explains what’s involved in an electrical inspection, who should have one and why, and what to expect in terms of cost.
What’s Involved in Electrical Inspections?
An electrical inspection is a thorough assessment of your property’s electrical system by a certified electrician. During the process, the electrician evaluates the safety, compliance, and condition of your installation.
Here’s what typically happens during an inspection:
- Visual Examination:
- Inspection of wiring, sockets, switches, fuse boards, and light fittings for any visible damage or wear.
- Assessment of any signs of overheating and hazards such as overloaded circuits.
- Electrical Component Testing:
- Comprehensive testing to confirm the functioning of electrical components, including circuit breakers, earth connections, and safety devices.
- Identification of issues like inadequate grounding, improper installation, or unsafe wiring practices.
- Compliance Checks:
- Verification against the latest regulations, including the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and other UK standards.
- Reporting:
- Providing an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), which details any issues found, recommends remedial actions, and assigns a safety rating to the system.
Who Needs an Electrical Inspection – And Why?
Electrical inspections aren’t universally required, but there are situations where they are essential or highly recommended:
- Homeowners:
- If you’ve recently moved into a new property, an inspection ensures your home’s electrical system is safe and up to current standards.
- For properties that haven’t had an inspection in the last 5–10 years, regular testing is recommended to detect wear or emerging issues.
- Landlords and Property Managers:
- It’s now a legal requirement in England that rental properties have an EICR completed at least once every 5 years to ensure tenant safety.
- Renovating Homeowners:
- If you’re planning renovations, an inspection ensures your existing system can support new installations or increased power usage.
- Homebuyers & Sellers:
- An EICR can highlight issues prior to sale or purchase, acting as a key part of due diligence during property transactions.
Why Are Electrical Inspections Important?
- Safety: Faulty wiring or overloaded circuits can lead to fires, electric shocks, or damage to electrical appliances. Inspections catch these issues before they become a hazard.
- Compliance: Staying within UK electrical standards ensures your property is legally compliant and meets insurance requirements.
- Cost Savings: Discovering potential problems early can prevent costly emergencies or unnecessary replacements down the line.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your electrical system is functioning efficiently and safely removes the stress surrounding hidden risks.
How Much Are Electrical Inspections in Surbiton?
The cost of an electrical inspection depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the property, the complexity of the installation, and whether additional remedial work is required.
At 365 Trade Group, we aim to provide transparent pricing, so you always know what to expect. Typical costs:
- Small Flats or Apartments: Starting from £100–£150.
- Standard 2–3 Bedroom Homes: From £200–£300.
- Larger Properties: Priced based on size and complexity, starting from £350+.
Keep in mind, if issues are identified during the inspection, the cost of repairs or upgrades will be quoted separately. Rest assured, our electricians’ team is committed to delivering cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or safety.
How Can We Help You?
At 365 Trade Group, electrical safety is our priority. Our experienced electricians are fully qualified, insured, and available across Surbiton, Surrey, and London to perform electrical inspections with the utmost professionalism and care.
Whether you need an EICR for a rental property or simply want peace of mind in your home, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free. Contact our electricians in Surbiton today for expert advice or to book an inspection at a time that suits you.
Call 0800 788 0629 to learn more about our electrical services or book your inspection. Let 365 Trade Group ensure your property is safe, compliant, and worry-free.
