Commercial EICR Guide
Commercial EICRs succeed or fail on planning: identify the operational constraints, access arrangements, distribution hierarchy and agreed extent before testing begins.
Commercial premises commonly have multiple boards, three-phase supplies, occupied areas, landlord/tenant boundaries and safety-critical loads. An agreed written scope is essential before any isolation or sampling decision is made.
This is practical guidance for competent electricians. Assess the actual installation, follow the current edition of BS 7671 and manufacturer instructions, and stop where the work cannot be completed safely.
Key takeaways
- Agree the scope and make the installation safe before starting work.
- Use a controlled sequence rather than relying on a single reading or visual assumption.
- Record the actual result, limitation or action taken while it is still traceable.
- Check the result against the design, protective measures and equipment instructions.
- Issue the appropriate certificate or report when the work is complete.
Scope the work first
Commercial premises commonly have multiple boards, three-phase supplies, occupied areas, landlord/tenant boundaries and safety-critical loads. An agreed written scope is essential before any isolation or sampling decision is made.
Method
Survey the site, map distribution, agree access and shutdown windows, then inspect and test in a controlled sequence. Coordinate with the duty holder so isolation, plant restart, permits and limitations are managed rather than discovered mid-test.
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Checks and common pitfalls
Do not apply domestic assumptions to a commercial installation. Confirm responsibility boundaries, equipment criticality, hazardous areas, emergency systems and whether sampling is justified and recorded.
Record and hand over
Provide a report that identifies each board, limitation, observation and remedial priority clearly. Hand over results with a concise explanation of operational risks and any urgent make-safe action.
Keep the evidence with the job
Record readings, limitations and remedial actions as you work. A clear certificate or report protects the client and makes the next visit easier to manage.
From guidance to action
Frequently asked questions
Can a commercial EICR be completed while the building is occupied?
Often, but only with a planned scope, safe access and agreed controls for isolation and disruption. Some circuits or areas may require out-of-hours work or a documented limitation.
Can I rely on a standard rule of thumb?
No. The installation method, supply characteristics, equipment instructions and the current requirements all affect the correct decision. Use the guide as a workflow, then assess the actual job.
What should be recorded?
Record the scope, results, limitations, observations, remedial work and the certificate or report appropriate to the work carried out.
Related guides
How to Price a Commercial EICR
Price a commercial EICR on boards, circuits and access — and agree the sampling extent before you start.
How to Fill In an EICR
A field-by-field guide to completing an EICR clearly, from supply details and limitations to observations and declaration.
Testing a Three-Phase Installation
A controlled testing and commissioning approach for three-phase systems, phase sequence and protective measures.
