07576 584901Testmasterinfo@gmail.com 24/7 online enquiries About Services Areas ReviewsOur WorkSocialContact07576 584901Request a Free Quote Home/Blog/EICR testingEICR testing # What is an EICR certificate? How it differs from installation and appliance records By Test Master UK6 November 20262 min read Service illustration: eicr testingEICR stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report. People often call it an EICR certificate, but its purpose is to report the condition of an existing fixed installation within an agreed inspection scope. Understanding which document you need avoids confusing condition assessments with certificates for new electrical work or records for appliance testing. ## An EICR assesses an existing installation Inspection and appropriate testing examine the installation's condition at the time of the visit. The document records the extent, limitations, relevant schedules, observations and overall assessment. It can identify safety issues and recommend further action. It does not guarantee that faults cannot develop later, certify every portable appliance or establish that all building safety duties have been met. Read what was inspected rather than relying on the everyday word 'certificate'. ## Certificates for new work have a different purpose An Electrical Installation Certificate records appropriate verification for the electrical installation work within its stated scope. A Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate can be appropriate for certain limited work. The competent person carrying out the work determines the suitable documentation. A certificate for a new circuit does not necessarily assess every existing circuit in a building. Equally, an EICR is not a replacement for missing verification of new work. Retain both types of record where they apply and keep their scopes identifiable. ## PAT testing records concern equipment Appliance inspection and testing records identify the equipment checked and its findings. A kettle's result does not establish that its socket circuit is safe, and a fixed-installation report does not establish that a damaged appliance is suitable for use. Keep equipment and installation evidence in separate sections of the property file. Where both are arranged, agree their inventories and outputs separately. A combined appointment should not blur what each inspection covers. ## Ask for the document that matches the task Explain whether you need an existing installation assessed, records for recent work, or an equipment inspection. Supply previous reports and certificates. Avoid asking for a certificate to 'pass' before anyone has inspected the relevant installation. Use residential EICR testing or commercial EICR testing for a condition assessment, and PAT testing for suitable equipment checks. For covered English rentals, follow the additional rules on inspection intervals, action and report delivery. - EICR: existing installation condition. - Installation or minor works certificate: stated electrical work. - PAT record: identified equipment and results. - Retain each document with its full scope. ## Sources and further reading - GOV.UK: Electrical safety standards in rented homes - HSE: Electrical safety at work - HSE: Portable appliance testing FAQsGeneral guidance for premises in England, checked on 6 November 2026. Requirements depend on your property, systems and applicable conditions. Follow competent advice, current official guidance and your local authority's requirements. ## In this guide - An EICR assesses an existing installation - Certificates for new work have a different purpose - PAT testing records concern equipment - Ask for the document that matches the task ## Need testing for your premises? Greenford-based electrical and fire safety services across London. Get a free quote 07576 584901 ## Related guides All guides EICR testing · 2 min read ## EICR report explained: how to read the scope, results and recommendations Read an EICR report beyond the summary: check property details, scope, limitations, test schedules, observations and the recommended next inspection date. 6 November 2026 EICR testing · 2 min read ## EICR testing and PAT testing: what is the difference? Understand what EICR testing and PAT testing each cover, which records they produce and how landlords and businesses can plan both without confusion. 17 October 2026 Electrical and fire safety compliance testing for businesses, property managers and landlords across London and Greenford. Read our Google reviewsLeave us a review ## Services - PAT Testing - Commercial EICR Testing - Residential EICR Testing - Emergency Lighting Testing - Fire Alarm Testing - Fire Extinguisher Servicing - Fire Door Inspection - Fire Risk Assessments - Remedial Works for Fire Compliance ## Service Areas - Greenford - Central London - All London Boroughs - West London - North London - South London - East London - Ealing - Uxbridge - Slough - Watford ## Contact - 07576 584901 - Testmasterinfo@gmail.com - Postal address669 Greenford Road, UB6 8QL - LinkedInOpening hours: 24/7 online enquiries © 2026 Test Master Ltd. All rights reserved. HomeAboutReviewsOur WorkContactPrivacy PolicyTerms & ConditionsCookie Policy Call NowFree Quote Chat on WhatsApp