We often get asked by businesses across Swindon why they really require all their portable electrical items tested. After all, they have never seen a toaster or computer blow up or cause a shock, and therefore it never happens. But they are wrong..
And the reason that you never see people get shocks or see electrical fires is because the items are PAT Tested. 

So, we thought this month we would highlight why these everyday items need to be regularly tested and which equipment most often fails PAT testing:

We are quite often asked by landlords if an EICRs is legally required, as they do not have one on their own home.
The answer is a resounding yes.
An EICR, (Electrical Installation Condition Report), is a document that records the results of an inspection and test of the electrical installation in a property. It is a legal requirement for landlords in England to have an EICR carried out on their rental properties every 5 years. The inspection and test must be carried out by a qualified and competent electrician.
The EICR will identify any electrical hazards in the property and recommend any necessary remedial work. The report will also state whether the electrical installation is safe to use.
Landlords must provide a copy of the EICR to their tenants before they move in, and to any prospective tenants who ask for it. They must also keep a copy of the report themselves.
Letting agencies are not legally required to have EICRs carried out on properties they manage, but they are encouraged to do so. Homeowners are not legally required to have EICRs carried out on their own properties, but it is a good idea to do so, especially if the property is old or has not been updated recently.
Here are the things involved in an EICR:​

Over the past years our electricians have often attended homes across Swindon where the homeowners themselves question why they need a qualified electrician to perform the job. This month we explain the dangers of performing electrics and the reasons why you should always call a qualified person to complete it.
There are many dangers of performing home electrics when not qualified. Here are some of the most serious:

• Electric shock: This is the most serious danger of working with electricity. An electric shock can cause burns, muscle contractions, and even death.
• Fire: Electrical faults can cause fires, which can be very destructive and dangerous.
• Damage to property: Electrical work that is not done properly can damage property, such as walls, ceilings, and appliances.
• Insurance problems: If you have an electrical fault in your home and you have not had it repaired by a qualified electrician, your insurance company may not cover the damage.
• Legal liability: If someone is injured or property is damaged as a result of your electrical work, you could be held legally liable.

If you are not qualified to work on electrical wiring, it is important to hire a qualified electrician. This will help to ensure that the work is done safely and correctly, and that you avoid the dangers of electrical work.