What’s involved in an electrical inspection?
As the weather starts getting colder, homeowners make more calls for electrical inspections. Often this is because an electrical problem has arisen, such as overloaded electrical circuits, commonly caused by the increased use in the number of appliances.
Many people are under the false impression that electrical inspections and tests are costly, in terms of both time and money. However, the majority of electrical inspections are little hassle, and ends up leaving the customer with peace of mind, and confidence that their property is electrically safe. Electrical inspections may reveal potential problems. However, these can normally be easily rectified, as it has been brought to attention before it has become a greater and thus more expensive issue.
So if you’re living in Broadstairs or surrounding areas, and experience any electrical issues, I urge you to contact us!
What is an electrical inspection?
Electrical inspections are based on the electrical system of each individual household. With prolonged age and use, all electrical appliances deteriorate. Therefore, it is important that they are inspected and tested regularly, in order to check they are in a suitable condition for further use. These safety tests are often referred to as Periodic Inspection and testing.
A periodic electrical inspection will:
- Find if there are any potential electric shock risks and/or fire hazards.
- Reveal if any electrical circuits or equipment are overloaded.
- Identify defective electrical work.
- Highlight any lack of earthing or bonding.
In addition tests are carried out on wiring, and fixed electrical equipment, to ensure these are also safe.
Electrical inspections should be performed by qualified persons only. They will check the condition of the electrics against the UK standard for the safety of electrical installations. The electrical inspection will check on the: adequacy, suitability and serviceability of your electrical appliances. For example, it will check the switches, sockets and light fittings; check for any damages and make sure there are adequate signs and notices.
Click here for a more detailed list of the checks, that will be carried out on a visit, or for more information on electrical inspections.
Electrical installation condition report
These will be issued at the end electrical inspections. They detail any observed damage, dangerous conditions and any non-compliances with present-day safety standards, which could be potentially dangerous.
In cases where there is immediate or potential danger, the overall condition of the electrical installation will be deemed unsatisfactory. Corrective actions will then be required, without delay, to eliminate these risks.
When should I get an electrical inspection?
It is not just if you suspect electrical issues, that you need an electrical inspection. You should also arrange one if you are planning on letting or selling your property, or if you are going to purchase a house from a previous owner.
You should also get electrical inspections performed after a certain period of time- your type of property will affect how regularly your electrics should be tested and inspected.
You should get an electrical inspection every:
- 10 years for self-owned homes
- 5 years for rented property
- 3 years for caravans
- 1 year for swimming properties
Living in Broadstairs and need an electrical inspection?
If you have a property which is due an electrical inspection- even if you are not experiencing any electrical issues- then please arrange one! If you live in East Kent, please contact us, and we will happily make arrangements. We always aim to give our customers the best service at the right price, which is supported by our strong reputation on checkatrade!
