When it comes to electrical safety, knowing how often your property needs to be inspected and tested isn’t just about compliance—it’s about keeping people safe and avoiding costly problems down the line. At WES Electrical, we’re committed to helping our clients across Glasgow and beyond stay ahead of their safety obligations. Here’s our expert guide on inspection and testing intervals for different types of electrical installations.
Why Regular Electrical Inspections Matter
Periodic inspection and testing aren’t just box-ticking exercises. Over time, wear and tear, environmental influences, and changing usage patterns can affect your electrical systems. Regular checks help prevent accidents, ensure compliance with UK regulations, and protect your property from serious faults or fire risks.
How often should you test?
The answer depends on several factors:
Type of installation (e.g., home, office, public venue)
Use and operation (how intensively it’s used)
Maintenance frequency and quality
External influences (damp, dust, vibration, public access, etc.)
BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) gives guidance for inspection frequencies. Below, we’ve broken it down into a simple reference guide.
EICR Certificate Inspection & Testing Intervals: At a Glance
The table below outlines how often different types of electrical installations should have routine checks and full inspections (including testing).
| Installation Type | Routine Check | Max Period Between Full Inspections & Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic (Homes, Flats) | N/A | 10 years or at change of occupancy |
| Commercial Properties | 1 year | 5 years or at change of occupancy |
| Educational (Schools, Colleges) | 6 months | 5 years |
| Hospitals | 1 year | 5 years |
| Industrial Premises | 1 year | 3 years |
| Residential Accommodation | Change of occupancy or 1 year | 5 years |
| Offices | 1 year | 5 years |
| Shops | 1 year | 5 years |
| Laboratories | 1 year | 5 years |
Buildings Open to the Public
| Venue | Routine Check | Max Interval (Testing) |
|---|---|---|
| Cinemas | 1 year | 1–3 years |
| Churches | 1 year | 5 years |
| Leisure Complexes | 4 months | 3 years |
| Places of Public Entertainment | 1 year | 1 year |
| Restaurants & Hotels | 1 year | 5 years |
| Theatres | 1 year | 3 years |
| Public Houses | 1 year | 5 years |
| Village Halls/Community Centres | 1 year | 5 years |
External Installations
| Type | Routine Check | Max Interval (Testing) |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural/Horticultural | 1 year | 3 years |
| Swimming Pools | 4 months | 1 year |
| Caravan Parks | 6 months | 1 year |
| Highway Power Supplies | As convenient | 6 years |
| Marinas | 4 months | 1 year |
| Fish Farms | 4 months | 1 year |
| Emergency Lighting | Daily/Monthly | 3 years |
| Fire Alarms | Daily/Monthly/Weekly | 1 year |
| Laundrettes | 1 month | 1 year |
| Petrol Filling Stations | 1 year | 1 year |
| Construction Sites | 3 months | 3 months |
What Does This Mean for You?
Landlords: If you’re renting out property, current Scottish law requires regular EICR testing—usually every five years, or sooner for HMOs or after a change of tenancy.
Business Owners: Offices, shops, and commercial premises typically require full inspection and testing every five years, with annual visual checks.
Special Environments: Swimming pools, caravan parks, marinas, and similar have much shorter intervals due to environmental risks—don’t let these dates slip.
Need a Reliable Electrician in Glasgow or the West of Scotland?
At WES Electrical, we provide EICR testing, periodic inspections, and all types of landlord and business safety certificates. Our team of fully qualified, SELECT-approved electricians delivers fast, professional service—whether you need a one-off check, urgent emergency response, or ongoing maintenance.
Book your inspection today!
☎️ 0141 840 5236
🌐 wesuk.co.uk
Let’s keep your property safe, legal, and powered up.
