UK businesses must carry out commercial electrical inspections every three to five years, or following any major changes. Passing an inspection depends on several factors, which we explore in this blog. We highlight the importance of reviewing previous reports, keeping clear records, and training staff, alongside enforcing safety practices and working with a qualified team.
The safety of your electrical installations is a key concern for your commercial business. Maintaining electrical safety not only keeps your business, staff, visitors, and reputation safe but also helps you meet the increasingly strict UK regulations and insurers’ demand for proof of compliance.
As the owner of your business, you’re responsible for electrical safety in your commercial property, and it’s your job to make sure your premises pass the next electrical test.
But how often should you get an electrical inspection, and why is it important? In this guide, we’re answering this question and exploring four key strategies that will help your business pass an electrical inspection in 2025, with a focus on the standards and requirements in the UK.
During an electrical inspection for your commercial premises, a qualified electrician will conduct a visual inspection and work through an electrical inspection checklist. Inspections could be a part of the EICR, carried out before you lease out a premises, or as requested by the insurance company.
Electrical safety checks follow a strict procedure, with mechanics following an electrical inspection checklist that’s unique to every business. Since each distribution board and associated circuit has to be tested, inspections are often done outside of your regular business hours to minimise disruption to your operations.
The required frequency of electrical inspection for a commercial premises is at least once every three to five years. You may also need an out-of-schedule inspection if there’s been a change of occupancy or a change in usage, or if you’ve identified any potential issues or damage.
Whether you need an electrical inspection for a routine EICR check or a pre-lease or insurance check, being adequately prepared with these four strategies can save your business time, money, and hassle.
Firstly, understand what installations and systems are being inspected. Most comprehensive business electrical inspections will include:
Knowing what’s being inspected tells you which areas you need to focus on.
If your business has had previous inspections, review the EICR or maintenance records. Look for any “C1” (danger present), “C2” (potentially dangerous) or “FI” (further investigation required) codes, and verify if they’ve already been addressed.
Other common remedial actions include:
If issues haven’t been resolved, make sure you get them addressed as a priority before your next inspection. If you delay acting on remedial recommendations, you risk invalidating your business’ electrical safety certificate and might even end up getting fined or shut down.
Under UK laws and regulations, commercial premises need to have regular Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) to demonstrate that they’re adhering to the latest electrical safety standards. Hiring an electrical contractor registered with the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) will guarantee your test as valid and recognised, as well as give you complete peace of mind.
NICEIC-approved contractors undergo rigorous assessments to comply with the highest standards and meet regulations set by local authorities. Oaktree Electrical has been NICEIC-approved for over 25 years, offering high-quality services, ranging from EICR testing to PAT checks.
Passing an electrical installation inspection goes beyond making sure the physical installations are in order; you’ll also need to be thorough with your documentation and safety culture overall.
Some of the best practices to follow:
This will help you keep your staff and property safe from electrical hazards.
Oaktree Electrical carries out a wide range of electrical testing for all types of commercial properties. Whether you run a retail store or a hospitality space, our team is here to keep you safe with rigorous inspection and testing procedures according to the latest electrical safety standards.
Our experienced electrician will check for:
Once we’ve finished our assessments, we’ll share clear and detailed reports with our findings and recommendations.
We can also support you with periodic testing and maintenance of your electrical systems, including emergency lighting, fire alarms, and appliance functioning.
We’re sensitive to your needs and work to achieve results through careful planning. We always aim to avoid unnecessary downtime and disruptions to your operations.
Contact us today for periodic testing services or for support in passing your next electrical inspection.
