When you book an electrician to attend your property for fault finding, it is important to understand that the purpose of the visit is to investigate and identify the cause of the problem. Faults can vary considerably, and in many cases it is not possible to know in advance exactly what is causing the issue or how long it will take to resolve.

Our electrician will begin by carrying out appropriate tests and investigations to establish the cause of the fault. Where possible, they will rectify the issue during the initial visit. However, depending on what is found, further investigation, parts, materials or additional works may be required.

If further work is identified that cannot reasonably be completed during the original appointment, the engineer will report their findings back to the office. We can then discuss the recommended works with you and, where appropriate, provide a quotation for your approval before proceeding.

Fault finding is therefore charged for the time spent investigating the problem, rather than a guarantee that the fault will be fully resolved within the initial appointment.

It is also important to understand that an electrician may need to investigate several possible causes before identifying the actual fault. This can include testing circuits, accessories, connections and existing wiring. Some faults can be straightforward to resolve, while others may require more extensive investigation or remedial work.

Managing Your Expectations

We will always aim to resolve the problem as efficiently as possible, but we cannot guarantee in advance that a fault will be identified or repaired within a specific amount of time.

Where the cause of the fault is more complex, additional time may be required. If we identify further works that are needed, we will explain what we have found and discuss the options with you before proceeding with additional chargeable works.

If you have concerns about the engineer's findings or the recommended works, please speak to us directly. We are always happy to explain what has been found and why a particular solution has been recommended.

If another contractor is subsequently asked to investigate or carry out works, their findings and quotation may be based on a different approach or scope of works and may therefore not be directly comparable with ours. Our charges for the original attendance and fault-finding investigation remain payable regardless of whether you subsequently choose to use another contractor.

Our aim is to provide a professional and transparent service, while ensuring that you understand what has been found, what is required and what the associated costs are before committing to any further works.

We are sometimes asked why our EICR prices are higher than some other companies.

The reason is simple: our inspections are more thorough.

We test 50% per circuit, which is significantly more comprehensive than many lower-cost inspections that may test only 15–20%.

Lower testing percentages can result in:

• More faults being discovered later during remedial work

• Unexpected additional costs

• Limited reports that make it hard to compare quotes

• In some cases, re-testing being required

When comparing quotes, always ask:

“What percentage of the installation will be tested?”

Price should reflect the level of inspection — not just the certificate.

We also include clear descriptions and supporting photos where needed, helping ensure accurate remedial quotes and fewer surprises.

For rental properties, EICRs are typically required every 3–5 years.

Our advice: choose a qualified electrician who can both test and carry out any remedial work properly, giving you clarity, compliance, and peace of mind.

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) involves checking electrical items that plug into a socket and can be moved.

This includes appliances such as:

• Microwave

• Kettle

• Toaster

• Washing machine

• Tumble dryer

• Dishwasher

• Food processor

• Office equipment and other plug-in devices

PAT testing helps landlords and businesses ensure that electrical equipment is safe and in good working order.

It can also provide documented proof of safety, which may be requested by:

• Letting agents

• Local councils

• Insurance providers

• Health & safety inspections

Regular testing reduces risk, supports compliance, and gives peace of mind that your appliances are safe to use.