Two of the most common questions we get asked before an EICR booking are: how long will it take? and what happens if something is wrong? This guide answers both clearly so you know exactly what to expect on the day — and afterwards. If you're new to EICRs, it's worth reading our overview of what an EICR is and who needs one first.
The honest answer is that it depends on the size and age of the property, and how many circuits need testing. That said, here are typical timeframes for domestic properties:
| Property Size | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| 1–2 bedroom flat or house | 2–3 hours |
| 3 bedroom house | 3–4 hours |
| 4–5 bedroom house | 4–6 hours |
| Large or older property | 6+ hours or split over two visits |
Commercial properties vary significantly depending on the number of circuits, distribution boards and the complexity of the installation — we'll always confirm an estimated duration before we start.
Several factors can add time to an inspection:
Power off: The electricity supply will need to be switched off for part of the inspection. This is unavoidable — the dead testing phase checks insulation resistance and continuity, both of which require circuits to be de-energised. It's worth unplugging sensitive equipment beforehand.
An EICR doesn't strictly "pass" or "fail" — it's classed as either Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. The outcome depends on the codes assigned to any observations found during the inspection:
| Code | Meaning | Effect on Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present — risk of injury or death | Unsatisfactory — immediate action required |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous condition | Unsatisfactory — urgent remedial work needed |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | Report can still be Satisfactory |
| FI | Further investigation required | May affect outcome depending on findings |
If your report comes back with only C3 observations, it can still be issued as Satisfactory — these are recommendations rather than requirements. If there are any C1 or C2 codes, the report will be Unsatisfactory and remedial work is required.
An unsatisfactory result isn't a disaster — it simply means faults need to be rectified. Here's the typical process:
If you're a landlord and your EICR comes back unsatisfactory, you are legally required to: (see our full rental property electrical checklist for everything you need to have in order before a new tenancy begins)
In the case of a C1 observation (immediate danger), the electrical supply to that circuit or the whole property may need to be isolated until the fault is resolved. We take every C1 finding seriously and will discuss the safest course of action with you on the day.
Can you rent out a property with an unsatisfactory EICR? Technically yes — but only if the remedial work is completed within 28 days. You cannot knowingly allow tenants to occupy a property with a C1 fault without addressing it immediately. Doing so could expose you to significant legal and financial liability.
These are the faults we most commonly find during inspections in older properties across the North East:
Many of these issues can be resolved in a single follow-up visit. A consumer unit upgrade will often address several C2 observations in one job — our guide to when you need a new consumer unit explains the signs to look for.
For domestic properties in Darlington and across the North East, our EICR reports start from £120. The exact price depends on the size of the property and the number of circuits. We always confirm a fixed price before we start — no hidden extras.
We carry out EICR reports for landlords, homeowners and commercial clients across Darlington, Teesside, Durham and surrounding areas. Get in touch for a fast quote.
