A visual electrical inspection is intended as a way of identifying defects, damage and deterioration of the electrical system in a building. It is a fast way and cost effective way of deciding whether or not the installation complies with the current BS7671 electrical safety standard. Once inspected a small report is usually written explaining where there are defects in the system and what they are.
The electrician is in particular inspecting the installation for safety, deterioration, corrosion, wear and tear and overloading.
This sort of electrical inspection doesn’t involve any circuit testing. Therefore, by itself, it can't determine whether that installation is absolutely safe for prolonged use.
So why would I require a Visual Electrical Inspection then?
If you are considering the buying of a new flat, house or office, you may want to consider a Visual Electrical Inspection. This inspection can give you a reasonable indication of the state of the electrical system in the house. The benefit of this inspection is that it is fairly quick and inexpensive.
When you have the report, you can make an informed decision on whether to purchase the land, whether the electrical system wants repair or upgrading and whether to take that into account when making an offer for the property.
If you are a landlord renting a property out, a visual inspection report may well be used as an interim measure between a formal Periodic Inspection Report (PIR).
Cost of a visual electrical inspection:
The cost of a visual electrical inspection and report can rely on the volume of the property and the ease of access to check the electrical installation itself. But, look for electrical companies that provide fixed pricing for this service. This will save any sickening surprises when the bill arrives. The inspection itself ought to take around half and hour to an hour and in London will cost around £100.
If you decide to hire a professional electrician or electrical company to carry out your electrical testing, the outlay will depend on the time taken to test all appliances methodically.
The time taken will rely on how easy it is to get to the appliances for testing, any home furniture that needs to be moved for example and of course the number of appliances.
It is important to ensure that any electrical appliances and fixtures within the house you rent out are safe.
However, unlike Gas Safe regulations, there is no legislation that demands you must have a electrical safety certificate. Though, should any electrical fittings or appliances in your rental property cause actual harm to the tenant, you could be held liable.
Author Resource:
Whether you are a landlord or a tenant I think it is important to get a visual electrical report if you possibly can. It can protect both of you in different ways.
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