07866 778280

WREXHAM, NORTH WALES

TESTING

TESTING AND INSPECTION

An electrical installation will deteriorate with age and use. It should therefore be inspected and tested at appropriate intervals to ensure the condition of the installation is satisfactory and safe to use. These safety checks are referred to as 'periodic inspection and testing' or more recently 'electrical installation condition report'. We are able to carry out these reports on all types of installations or single circuits as required by you the customer.

 

A periodic inspection will highlight:

 

  •  If any overloading is likely on your electrical circuits
  •  Lack of earthing and bonding
  •  Potential risk of electric shock
  •  Any fire risk that may be evident
  •  Electrical work that is defective or substandard.
  •  Thermal Imaging reports

 

Together with a full schedule of test results the report gives your electrical installation a valuable documentation.

How often is a periodic inspection required?

There is only guidance and maximum periods to determine how

 

 

Recommended Testing Frequencies:

 

If you choose to carry out the work yourself or employ an Electrician who is not registered on the government approved scheme, and you do not notify Building Control of such work you will be committing a criminal offence. Local Authorities can make home owners or Landlords remove or alter any work that does not meet the building regulations.

General installation:

 

  • Occupied home 10 years
  • Rented home 5 years or  change of occupancy
  • Industrial Factory/Warehouse 3  years
  • Commercial property 5 years or change of occupancy
  • Offices/Shops 5 years

Buildings open to the public:

 

  • Church 5 years
  • Places of public entertainment  3 years
  • Public houses 5 years
  • Village halls/Community centres 5 years

 

 

Special Locations:

 

  • Agricultural and horticultural 3 years
  • Caravan Parks 1 year
  • Caravans 3 years
  • Construction sites 3 months

 

 

The frequency of inspection may be different to that stated above if the competent Inspector recommends a specific period, taking into account:

 

  •  The use and operation
  •  The frequency and quality of maintenance
  •  The external influences to which it is subjected
  •  The age of the installation.

 

P.A.T Testing:

 

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the testing and examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. A visual inspection can find most defects with appliances and the user should take responsibility for visually checking the appliance, its cord and plug. However, it is also essential to undertake controlled tests on the appliance using specialist equipment and understand the results obtained.

 

We at Smarts Electrical Services are fully trained and hold the relevant equipment to undertake your PAT testing needs.