How long does an EICR take?

For a standard 3-bedroom house, an EICR typically takes 3–4 hours on-site, plus time for the electrician to write the report (which may be sent to you same day or within a few days). For a larger 4–5 bedroom house or a property with older wiring, expect 4–6 hours. A flat might take 2–3 hours. The time depends on how many circuits are in the consumer unit, whether the wiring is accessible, and whether any faults are found that need investigation. To help the electrician work efficiently: make sure all rooms are accessible (clear areas under stairs and around the consumer unit), tell them about any known faults, and have a list of any previous electrical work done. The electrician will need to briefly cut power to each circuit — make sure vulnerable appliances (fish tanks, incubators, heated vivariums) are taken care of in advance.