Before we know it, the summer holidays will be upon us. Holiday homes, campsites and parks are readying themselves for an influx of guests.
But just like any homes, the electrical safety of a property is paramount. If you are a holiday let owner or a campsite owner you have a duty of care to ensure all electrical appliances, circuits and fixed installations are safe and compliant with current regulations. The best way of ensuring you are fulfilling this obligation is by having an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
How often an EICR is due depends on a number of factors but the following is a guide:
• Holiday Let – every 5 years
• Camping and caravan sites – every year
• Static caravans – every 3 years
By checking the sticker on the distribution board, you will be able to tell when the inspection is next due, if in doubt do call a qualified contractor. You should always check the credentials and qualifications of any contractor you choose to use. Look for a contractor who holds NICEIC, CHAS and Registered Competent Person qualifications, as Black Pear Electrical do, and check what experience they have in your particular sector. To remove the risk of unnecessary work being charged you can use any, qualified electrical contractor to complete the actions identified in your EICR report – you do not have to use the same contractor who completed the report.
In addition, you do not have to have complete all the EICR testing again once the actions have been taken and any issues rectified. The contractor you choose to use for the actions should provide you with either an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or a Minor Works Certificate (MW) as evidence that the faults have been fixed. It’s important you keep these documents and can provide them with the original EICR as evidence that you have fulfilled your legal responsibilities.
For more information about EICR please visit our FAQ
To ensure electrical safety in any holiday accommodation there are some other pointers that will help to keep your guests safe:
• In between guests carry out a visual check of electrical appliance, look out for signs of wear and tear and either replace or fix accordingly
• Keep instruction manuals for appliances in your guest information pack
• Keep a supply of spare bulbs and fuses at the property
• Make sure you guests know who to call in case of emergency
As a holiday maker there are things you should do to make sure you stay safe in your holiday accommodation whether home or abroad;
• Make sure you report any faulty electrical equipment
• Do not use anything that upon inspection has any faults such as exposed wires or scorch marks
• Follow the manufacturers guideline when using appliances
Whilst you are away enjoying yourselves make sure your own home is safe by making sure you have turned off any thing electrical, the last thing you want is to get the dreaded call saying there is an electrical fire at home.
If you have any questions or to book you EICR please call us on 01905 700 490 or email info@blackpearelectrical.co.uk
So, stay safe and enjoy your holidays!
