Who can carry out a commercial EICR?
HSE says fixed-wiring inspection and testing should normally be done by a competent person, usually an electrician. The relevant competence depends on the installation: a small office, a three-phase factory and a special location do not present the same work.
Check my situationVerify the person and method
Ask who will inspect and test, their experience with comparable installations, how safe isolation will be managed and how observations and limitations will be recorded. A provider listing shows evidence found, not Vendor Atlas approval.
- Ask for the named inspector and evidence for this installation type.
- Check access, isolation, instruments, calibration and report quality review.
- Request current insurance and resolve any gaps in the provider record before appointment.
What to do next: Send the same schedule to each provider. Compare competence, safe-working plan, test coverage, reporting and exclusions before comparing the total fee.
Competence is installation-specific
HSE describes competence as the skills, knowledge and experience needed for safe electrical work. High-voltage or specialised systems require more than general electrical experience.
Report evidence
A suitable proposal should identify the condition report, circuit test schedule, coded observations, limitations and response to dangerous findings. Confirm who signs and reviews the report.
Independent judgement
Ask how defects are distinguished from optional improvements and how remedial work is priced separately. Verify provider claims and the assigned person before appointment.