Electrical safety is a legal and operational priority for any commercial property. Whether you run a business, manage a warehouse, or let offices across Stockport and Greater Manchester, staying compliant with electrical safety standards is essential. One of the key requirements is the EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) — a formal inspection that assesses the safety and condition of your building’s electrical system.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about EICR testing in the UK for 2025, including business regulations, costs, obligations for landlords, and how Solarus can support you from testing through to completing any remedial work.
What Is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a detailed assessment carried out by a qualified electrical contractor to determine the safety, efficiency, and compliance of your electrical installation.
During the inspection, the engineer will check for:
- Faulty wiring or loose connections
- Overloaded circuits
- Ageing electrical components
- Fire hazards
- Areas not meeting current standards
- Safety issues affecting staff or tenants
You can read more about the importance of electrical safety on the Electrical Safety First website: https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk
A condition report is essential for commercial buildings, industrial units, retail spaces, HMOs, and rented properties.
How Often Do Businesses Need an EICR?
In most commercial environments, a condition report is recommended every:
- 5 years for commercial premises
- 3 years for industrial environments
- 5 years for rented properties under landlord regulations
Some insurers may require more frequent testing depending on your business type or building usage.
In Stockport and Greater Manchester, many landlords and business owners choose to renew their condition report more regularly due to tenant turnover or changing regulations.
Why EICR Testing Matters for Businesses in 2026
2026 is an important year for commercial electrical compliance.
With increasing focus on insurance requirements, EPC regulations, and general safety standards, ensuring your building is electrically safe has never been more important.
Key reasons to keep your EICR up to date:
1. Legal Compliance
Businesses have a duty of care under:
- The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
An EICR helps demonstrate compliance, protecting you from legal issues if an incident occurs.
2. Insurance Requirements
Insurance providers often request a valid condition report before covering electrical-related claims.
3. Tenant and Staff Safety
For landlords and commercial property owners in Greater Manchester, an up-to-date certificate is vital for providing a safe working environment.
4. Reducing Business Risk
Electrical issues can lead to:
- Fires
- Equipment failure
- Operational downtime
- Expensive emergency repairs
An EICR identifies problems early before they become costly.
What Happens After the EICR?
Once your condition report is complete, the report will categorise any findings as follows:
- C1 – Immediate danger
Requires urgent repair. - C2 – Potentially dangerous
Needs prompt remedial work. - C3 – Improvement recommended
Not unsafe, but upgrading is advisable. - FI – Further investigation required
At Solarus Energy Ltd, we don’t just carry out the inspection. We can complete all remedial works required to bring your installation up to standard.
This includes:
- Rewiring and circuit upgrades
- Consumer unit replacements
- LED lighting upgrades
- Energy-efficiency improvements
- Electrical repairs and fault-finding
Learn more: Electrical Services – Solarus Energy
Benefits of Choosing Solarus for Your EICR
We carry out condition reports and other electrical contracting works across Stockport, Greater Manchester, Cheshire and the wider North West, providing reliable support for:
- Commercial businesses
- Landlords
- Industrial units
- Retail premises
- Offices and warehouses
- New tenants or lease agreements
Why customers trust us:
- NICEIC Approved Contractors
- CHAS Accredited
- Fully insured, qualified electricians
- Ability to complete all required remedial work
- Fast turnaround for urgent inspections
- Which? Trusted Traders
- Octopus Trusted Partners
We also supply energy-efficiency upgrades including LED lighting, solar PV, heat pumps, battery storage, smart systems and EV Charging, helping businesses reduce costs and improve EPC ratings.
How Much Does an EICR Cost?
EICR costs vary depending on:
- Property size
- Number of circuits
- Building type
- Access and operational requirements
We provide transparent pricing and can offer a quotation based on your premises.
Book Your EICR in Stockport or Greater Manchester
If your EICR is due in 2025/2026 — or if you’re unsure when your last one was completed — it’s best to arrange a renewal as soon as possible.
At Solarus, we provide:
✔ EICR testing for commercial and rental properties
✔ Clear, jargon-free reporting
✔ Full remedial work service
✔ Upgrades to improve efficiency and compliance