Test and inspection

An important area of electrical work is the inspection and testing of in service installations. There are many reasons for doing such work, for example:

Moving into a new property
Home Information Packs (H.I.P.s)
Following fires, flooding or other damage
Change of tenancy
Insurance requirements

All new installations should be properly inspected and tested prior to putting into service.

The law does not require electrical testing to be carried out. However, the law does require that you keep your entire electrical system safe at all times. The only effective means to that end is to have periodic testing and inspection carried out, together with action to remedy any faults found as a result of testing.

If an accident or fire does occur where electricity is suspected to have been the cause, then the duty is yours to prove that you did your best to avoid that accident (offence). Test data results together with preventative maintenance records will provide your best proof and defence.