The questions
worth asking first.

A commercial EICR is the written condition report produced after periodic inspection and testing, often marketed as fixed wire testing. Confirm that your quotation includes both the site work and the report, along with schedules and limitations. The terms should not lead to duplicate bookings for the same installation.

Annual PAT testing is not a universal legal requirement for workplace appliances. The duty is to maintain equipment safely, with the approach based on risk. Equipment type, use, environment and previous findings should guide the plan, rather than applying the same testing interval to every item in every workplace.

Fixed wire testing usually involves some power interruptions because parts of the installation need to be safely isolated. The affected circuits and practical timing should be agreed in advance. Identify sensitive systems and restart procedures early, and do not assume that an occupied building can be tested without any shutdowns.

An EICR does not automatically include emergency lighting functional or duration testing. The fixed installation and the emergency lighting system have different assessment needs. Ask for emergency lighting to be explicitly included as a separate scope, with clear records of the tests undertaken and any defects that need attention.

Electrical installation documents should match the work completed. New installation work normally needs an Electrical Installation Certificate, while a qualifying small alteration may use a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate. Ask for relevant schedules, circuit information and operating instructions, and confirm how these fit into the landlord’s building records.

An unsatisfactory EICR does not automatically mean a full rewire is needed. The observations identify defects or investigation needs that must be considered individually. Ask for an explanation of the findings and a separate remedial scope, with evidence showing how each relevant issue will be addressed.

Commercial electrical safety responsibilities depend on who controls the premises, installation and work activities. Employers, landlords and occupiers can each have relevant duties. Check your lease and management arrangements, nominate a responsible contact, and agree access to shared systems so that gaps between landlord and tenant responsibilities are addressed.

Commercial electrical inspection intervals depend on the installation’s use, environment, condition and maintenance history. A previous report should recommend a next inspection date, but changes or concerns may justify earlier attention. Check any lease or insurance requirements and ask a competent person to review the interval for your premises.

An electrical quotation can begin without a previous report. Describe the premises, postcode, service needed and the issue you want to resolve. Existing drawings, circuit schedules and photographs of closed equipment are helpful, but a site survey may be needed before the scope and price can be confirmed.

Occupied commercial premises can be considered for installation, inspection and testing work. Tell us about opening hours, public access, critical equipment and any restrictions on interruption. The work needs a safe method and agreed access arrangements, which may involve phasing or planned shutdowns depending on the electrical system.

An electrical service enquiry is most useful with a building postcode, premises type and a short description of the work. Include your preferred timescale and any access or shutdown restrictions. You can mention existing reports or drawings, but avoid sending sensitive records until the appropriate contact and scope are established.

An electrical emergency needs immediate safety action rather than waiting for an online enquiry. Keep people away from damaged equipment or exposed conductors and do not attempt repairs. Follow your workplace emergency procedures and contact the appropriate emergency service where there is immediate danger, fire or a threat to life.