Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or property buyer in Hertford Heath, ensuring your electrics are safe isn’t just about peace of mind — it’s a legal and moral responsibility. One of the most important steps you can take is securing an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
At JJB Electrical Ltd., we specialise in carrying out professional EICRs across Hertford Heath and the surrounding areas, giving you clear, expert advice and full compliance with today’s safety standards.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explain exactly what an EICR is, who needs one, what’s involved, and why choosing the right local electrician matters.
What Is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a detailed inspection and testing of a property’s fixed electrical system.
This includes:
- Wiring
- Consumer units (fuse boxes)
- Sockets and switches
- Lighting circuits
- Earthing and bonding
The goal is to identify any damage, wear and tear, faults, or risks that could lead to electric shocks, fires, or injury.
Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a written report stating:
- Whether the installation is safe for continued use
- Any observed damage, deterioration, or non-compliance with current regulations
- Any urgent work required to make the installation safe
Who Needs an EICR in Hertford Heath?
EICRs aren’t just for landlords — although they are legally required for rented properties.
You should arrange an EICR if you are:
1. A Homeowner
Electrical systems degrade over time. The recommended guidance is that homeowners have an EICR every 10 years (or with every change of occupancy). Even in charming villages like Hertford Heath where properties are often well-built and beautifully maintained, wiring can quietly deteriorate behind the scenes.
2. A Landlord
Landlords are legally required to have an EICR carried out at least every 5 years on rental properties, under The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.
You must:
- Provide a copy of the report to your tenants within 28 days
- Provide it to the local authority within 7 days if requested
- Carry out any remedial work identified as urgent
- Non-compliance can result in heavy fines.
3. A Homebuyer
If you’re buying a property in Hertford Heath, an EICR provides invaluable reassurance. Many home surveys do not cover electrics in detail, so without an EICR, you could unknowingly purchase a home with serious (and costly) hidden issues.
What Happens During an EICR Inspection?
An EICR is thorough and methodical. At JJB Electrical Ltd., here’s how we carry it out:
Visual Inspection
- Checking sockets, switches, consumer units, and visible wiring for signs of wear, damage, or non-compliance.
Dead Testing
- Checking continuity and insulation resistance of all circuits without power.
Live Testing
- Verifying safe operation of systems under real conditions, including RCD trip times and earth fault loop impedance.
Reporting and Classification
Any faults are graded as:
- C1: Immediate danger, must be rectified immediately.
- C2: Potentially dangerous, urgent action required.
- C3: Improvement recommended (not immediately dangerous).
Issuing the EICR Certificate
- You’ll receive a clear written report outlining all findings.
- We also walk you through the report verbally — making sure you understand what’s been found and what your next steps should be.
Common Problems Found in Hertford Heath Homes
Even well-kept homes often show up issues during an EICR, such as:
- Lack of RCD protection (modern safety standards)
- Old rubber, lead, or fabric-insulated wiring
- Loose connections in sockets or lighting circuits
- Overloaded consumer units
- Poor quality DIY modifications
- Unsuitable bonding of water and gas services
Many properties in Hertford Heath, particularly those built pre-1980s, benefit hugely from updated electrics for both safety and compliance.
How Much Does an EICR Cost in Hertford Heath?
Costs can vary depending on the size of the property and the number of circuits to be tested.
Typical starting points:
Flats/Apartments
- 1 Bedroom Flat £180, 2 Bedroom Flat £200, 3 Bedroom Flat £220
Maisonettes
- 2 Bedroom £220, 3 Bedroom £250
Houses
- 2 Bedroom house £240, 3 Bedroom house £270, 4 Bedroom house £300
Garages and external buildings are charged at £75 per board plus £20 per circuit e.g. a garage fuse board containing one circuit for the lights and another for some sockets would be charged at £115.
Larger properties or multiple consumer units: individually quoted
At JJB Electrical Ltd., we offer clear, fixed pricing for EICRs in Hertford Heath, with no hidden extras — and if any urgent issues are found, we’ll quote transparently for putting them right.
How Long Does an EICR Take?
As a guide:
- Small flats or houses: 2–3 hours
- Larger family homes: 4–5 hours
If your electrics are more complex or extensive, it may take longer — but we’ll always explain timescales before starting.
What Happens If My EICR Fails?
If your property receives an Unsatisfactory outcome, don't panic.
It simply means one or more issues were found that must be addressed before the system is considered safe.
You must:
- Have the necessary remedial works completed by a qualified electrician
- Obtain a written confirmation (Minor Works Certificate or updated EICR) stating that the installation is now safe
At JJB Electrical Ltd., we can handle both the testing and any necessary remedial work — keeping everything simple and straightforward for you.
Why Choose JJB Electrical Ltd. for Your EICR in Hertford Heath?
Choosing the right electrician for your EICR isn’t just about ticking a box — it’s about trust, safety, and peace of mind.
At JJB Electrical Ltd., we offer:
- Fully qualified, insured, and NAPIT-accredited electricians
- Clear, understandable reports — no jargon
- Competitive, transparent pricing
- Fast turnaround times
- Genuine care for your home’s safety
Whether you live in a cosy Hertford Heath cottage, a modern new-build, or a family home tucked away in the village, we treat every property with the same attention to detail and respect.
FAQs About EICRs in Hertford Heath
Q: Is an EICR legally required for homeowners?
A: It’s not legally required, but it is strongly recommended every 10 years to ensure safety.
Q: How often does a landlord need an EICR?
A: Every 5 years, or at change of tenancy if the previous EICR is older than 5 years.
Q: Can I use a general handyman for an EICR?
A: No — EICRs must be carried out by a qualified, competent electrician registered with a recognised scheme like NAPIT.
Q: What happens if faults are found?
A: We’ll clearly explain what needs doing, quote fairly, and complete the work promptly if you choose to go ahead.
Book Your EICR in Hertford Heath Today
Electrical safety isn’t something to put off.
Protecting your family, your tenants, or your investment property starts with knowing that your electrics are safe and compliant.
At JJB Electrical Ltd., we are proud to be the trusted name for EICRs in Hertford Heath — offering expert inspections, clear advice, and outstanding service.
Call us today on 01992 276087 to book your EICR inspection, or visit www.jjb-electrical.com to learn more.
JJB Electrical Ltd. — your local, trusted electricians in Hertford Heath.
