How Often Should I Have My Electrics Tested In My Home

It is natural over time, that all electrical systems deteriorate as they are used so often. That is why it is important to have the necessary tests carried out to ensure their integrity and safety. For homeowners this is particularly important as the usage of specific systems is a lot higher than anywhere else. At IPF Electrical we are accredited electrical engineers. In our latest article we take a look at how often I should have my electrics tested in my home.

What Is Electrical Testing?

Electrical testing is the process of having an accredited and registered electrician enter your home to complete a full inspection on the electrical installations. During this test a full visual as well as deeper inspection is carried out to make sure that all of your electrical installations are working as they should be. 

Over time and due to wear and tear many electrical installations will deteriorate. That is why it is important to have them inspected at least every 10 years. This will help to ensure that no accidents or injuries occur from faulty electrics, but also any remedial work that needs to be completed is not as extensive or potentially expensive.

How Often Should They Be Tested?

Depending on what context you are looking at, electrical testing will be dependent on how often they should be tested. If you are a homeowner this will differ from those who are renting out their properties. Whichever it may be, having your electrics tested is a must, due to wear and tear as well as how often they are used within your home. The explanation for homeowners and rented accommodation is as follows:-

For Homeowners

For homeowners it is recommended that your electrics are tested once every 10 years. However, if you find yourself moving into a new home it is always worthwhile having a check done to know if there is any remedial work going to be needed. The tests will determine the safety and conditioning of the wiring within your home. 

In addition to the 10 year testing rule, if you find that your home is showing signs of wear and tear or any of the following are occurring then you should consider having an electrical test carried out:-

  • Regular circuit breaker trips 
  • Burning smells 
  • Slight electric shocks from sockets 
  • Sparking 
  • Flickering lights 
  • Irregularities with outlets, sockets or switches.

For Landlords

If you are a landlord it is your responsibility to ensure that those who are renting your home are safe. This is why it is suggested that every 5 years an electrical test should be carried out. Or ideally between tenants. This ensures that the new people moving into your home are safe, as well as all electrics working as they should be. It is a legal requirement for all landlords and one in which not adhered to can have severe consequences.

What Does The Test Check For?

The test should be carried out by an accredited and certified professional. They will be checking the electrics within your home against the UK standard for the safety of electrical wiring. Their inspection will also take into account the following areas:-

  • The adequacy of earthing and bonding.
  • The suitability of switchgear and controlgear. 
  • The serviceability of the switchgear, sockets and light fittings. Items that may need replacing include older round-pin sockets, round light switches and any sockets that may be mounted on circuit boards. 
  • The type of wiring system and its condition. This will be dependent on the age of your home. 
  • Sockets that may be used to supply portable electrical equipment for outdoor use.
  • The presence of adequate identification and notices.
  • The extent of any wear and tear or damage that has occurred over time. 
  • Any changes in use of premises which may have led to unsafe conditions.

To Conclude

Having electrical testing carried out is important to your home, especially for those that are renting or moving into somewhere new. How often you should have your electrics tested in your home does come with a general rule however. If you feel that your house could benefit from it then it is highly recommended to have it completed. At IPF Electrical we have a number of years experience in the world of electrical testing among other services. For more information on how we can help and also what other services we offer then please feel free to Contact Us.