The recommended inspection frequency depends on your property type and how it is used.
Homeowners — Every 10 years, or when you buy a new property. If your home has not been inspected in the last decade, or if you do not know when it was last checked, it is worth booking an EICR to establish a baseline.
Landlords in Scotland — Every 5 years, legally required. You must provide a valid EICR to tenants before they move in and keep it current throughout the tenancy. Failure to comply can result in penalties.
Commercial properties — Every 3-5 years depending on the type of business and environment. Higher-risk environments (industrial, catering, construction) should be tested more frequently.
When to inspect immediately — Do not wait for the scheduled interval if you notice any of these warning signs: - Consumer unit (fuse box) is more than 15 years old - Frequent tripping of circuits - Flickering lights across the property - Burning smell from sockets or switches - Discoloured or warm socket plates - Buzzing or crackling sounds from electrical fittings - Two-pin sockets or round-pin plugs still in use
What an inspection involves — An EICR typically takes 2-4 hours for a standard domestic property. We test every circuit, check earthing and bonding, inspect the consumer unit, and provide a detailed report with clear recommendations.
All inspections are carried out by NICEIC-approved electricians covering all of Central Scotland.