Project Overview

Following the purchase of their new home in Cockermouth, our client contacted Same Electricals Limited requesting an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). Although there were no obvious electrical faults during everyday use, the client wasn't totally convinced on the quality of the electrical installation and wanted reassurance that the installation was safe and complied with current electrical safety standards before carrying out further renovations.
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Our inspection identified numerous defects and signs of poor workmanship accumulated over many years of alterations. While many of the issues were hidden from view, together they represented a significant reduction in the overall safety and reliability of the installation. A detailed report was provided to the client, allowing informed decisions to be made regarding the necessary remedial works.

Project Brief

Purchasing a property can often reveal hidden issues that aren't immediately apparent during viewings or a standard home survey. The client wanted an independent assessment of the electrical installation before investing further in their new home.  We would always recommend an independent EICR is undertaken before any house purchase to prevent instances like this. 

A comprehensive EICR was undertaken in accordance with BS 7671, inspecting the condition of the consumer unit, protective devices, earthing and bonding arrangements, accessories and concealed wiring where accessible. Electrical testing was carried out throughout the property to assess the condition and performance of the installation. The inspection identified several significant observations, resulting in the installation being classified as Unsatisfactory.

Project Challenges

Although the installation appeared relatively typical at first glance, a more detailed inspection revealed numerous examples of poor-quality workmanship and previous alterations that failed to meet current safety standards. Among the observations identified were:

  • Consumer unit modifications that prevented the protective devices from fitting correctly within the enclosure.
  • Holes within the consumer unit which did not comply with IP4x / IP2x
  • Missing grommets where cables entered back boxes, reducing protection against cable damage.
  • Missing earth sleeving on protective conductors.
  • Overly sensitive RCD protection causing nuisance tripping.
  • Damaged and cracked socket outlets.
  • Inappropriate and undersized speaker cable used to extend fixed lighting circuits.
  • General signs of poor workmanship and previous non-compliant alterations.

While some defects were relatively minor in isolation, the number and combination of observations demonstrated a consistent lack of compliance with recognised installation practices. The overall condition of the installation meant remedial works were recommended before the property could be considered electrically satisfactory.

The Results

Following completion of the inspection, the client received a comprehensive EICR detailing every observation together with clear explanations of their significance and the recommended corrective actions.
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Remedial works were subsequently carried out by Same Electricals Limited to address the identified safety issues, significantly improving the condition of the installation and restoring compliance with current electrical regulations.

This project demonstrates the value of obtaining an independent Electrical Installation Condition Report when purchasing a property. Hidden defects are often impossible to identify during a standard house viewing, and a professional inspection can provide homeowners with confidence that their electrical installation is safe, compliant and suitable for continued use.

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) can help identify hidden defects before they develop into costly or potentially dangerous problems.

Whether you're purchasing an older property or simply want peace of mind, an EICR provides a detailed assessment of the condition of your electrical installation and highlights any remedial work that may be required to ensure ongoing safety.
When you choose Same Electricals Limited, you can expect:
✓ NAPIT Approved Contractor
✓ Domestic & Commercial Specialists
✓ Fully calibrated test equipment
✓ Honest, evidence-based reporting
✓ Digital certification
✓ Clear explanation of every observation
✓ Quotations for remedial work where required
✓ Friendly, professional service

Get A Quote

Tell us a little about the work you'd like carried out and upload any relevant photos or plans. We'll review your enquiry, discuss the available options and provide a detailed, no-obligation quotation with clear pricing and honest advice.

Whether it's a small domestic job or a large commercial installation, you'll receive the same high standard of communication, workmanship and customer service that Same Electricals Limited is known for.

Trusted Electrical Contractors Across the North East & Cumbria

✓ NAPIT Approved Contractor
✓ Domestic & Commercial Specialists
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Same Electricals Limited is a trusted electrical contractor providing high-quality domestic and commercial electrical services throughout the North East and Cumbria. Whether you require an EV charger installation, electrical testing, maintenance or a complete installation, we're committed to delivering exceptional workmanship and outstanding customer service.