Find Electrical Inspecting & Testing in the UK
Search by UK town or postcode
If you'd prefer businesses to reach out to you,
post an enquiry or find your location by the region below.
Need help finding an electrical inspection and testing service near you?
From electrical safety checks to full inspection and testing reports, Yell helps you hire trusted electrical inspection and testing services near you in just a few steps.
Here's how it works:
1. Enter your location to browse electrical inspection and testing profiles or post an enquiry online
2. Compare reviews and credentials to find businesses that suit your needs
3. Prefer to speak directly? Call or message businesses directly from their profile
Types of electrical inspection and testing services near you
1. Electrical inspections
Electrical inspections assess the condition and safety of electrical installations. Electricians check wiring, sockets, consumer units and other components to identify potential hazards, damage or signs of non-compliance.
2. Electrical testing
Electrical testing involves carrying out checks to ensure electrical systems are operating safely. These tests help identify faults, verify performance and confirm that installations meet current safety standards.
3. Electrical certification and compliance
Following inspections and testing, electricians can provide certificates and reports that demonstrate compliance with current regulations. These documents are often required for landlords, businesses, property sales and insurance purposes.
What are the most common electrical inspection and testing services?
Electrical inspection and testing services help ensure electrical installations remain safe and compliant. Below are some of the most common services they're called out to provide.
Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs)
An EICR is one of the most common electrical safety inspections carried out in homes, rental properties and commercial premises.
During the inspection, an electrician assesses the condition of the electrical installation and identifies any damage, deterioration or potential safety risks.
The report highlights any issues found and may recommend remedial work where necessary.
Landlord electrical safety certificates
Landlords are legally required to have the electrical installations in their rental properties inspected and tested at regular intervals.
These inspections help confirm that the property's electrical systems are safe for tenants to use.
Once completed, landlords receive the relevant documentation showing whether the installation meets current safety requirements.
Fixed wire testing
Fixed wire testing involves inspecting and testing the permanent electrical wiring within a property.
This includes circuits, sockets, lighting, consumer units and other fixed electrical components.
The service helps identify faults, deterioration and potential hazards before they become more serious problems.
PAT testing
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) checks the safety of electrical appliances that are connected to a plug socket.
Common items tested include computers, kettles, extension leads, printers and power tools.
PAT testing is particularly popular in workplaces, rental properties and public buildings where electrical safety is a priority.
Commercial electrical inspections
Businesses often arrange regular electrical inspections to help meet health and safety responsibilities and reduce the risk of electrical faults.
These inspections can cover offices, retail units, warehouses, schools and other commercial premises.
Regular testing helps identify potential issues early and supports ongoing compliance.
Fault finding and diagnostic testing
When electrical systems develop faults, specialist testing can help identify the cause.
Electricians use diagnostic equipment to investigate issues such as tripping circuits, faulty wiring, poor connections and unexplained power loss.
Accurate fault finding helps ensure repairs are completed safely and efficiently.
How to find the best local electrical inspection and testing services
Finding the right electrical inspection and testing service takes more than a quick online search. Here are four key factors to keep in mind to help you choose a qualified and reliable professional:
Qualifications and certification
Before choosing local electrical inspection and testing services, verify qualifications and certification rather than relying on claims alone. Request evidence of current credentials and check that they are appropriate for the type of inspection you need.
Experience
Look for providers with experience carrying out inspections and testing on properties similar to yours. Relevant experience often leads to more accurate assessments and clearer recommendations.
Reputation or reviews
Read recent reviews before shortlisting local electrical inspection and testing services. Look for comments on professionalism, communication and report quality. Consistent feedback across multiple reviews is usually a strong indicator of reliable service.
Reporting and payment terms
Agree reporting and payment terms before booking an inspection. Ask when documentation will be provided and confirm exactly what is included in the quoted price. Clear written terms reduce misunderstandings and make costs easier to control.
What questions should I ask before booking an electrical inspection?
What type of inspection do I need? Asking this helps ensure you're booking the most appropriate service for your needs.
What documentation will I receive? It's worth confirming what reports or certificates will be provided once the inspection is complete.
How long will the inspection take? Inspection times can vary depending on the size and complexity of the property. Understanding the expected timescale helps you plan ahead and minimise disruption.
What happens if faults are identified? Asking this question helps you understand the next steps and any potential additional costs.
What's included in the quoted price? A clear breakdown of costs makes it easier to compare providers fairly. It also helps you avoid unexpected charges.
Top frequently asked questions about electrical inspection and testing
For owner-occupied homes, an electrical inspection is often recommended every 10 years, or sooner if the property is older, has been renovated, or shows signs of electrical problems. Rental properties usually need more frequent checks, as landlords must follow specific electrical safety rules.
Pro tip: Need to rewire your home but unsure about the cost? Read our guide to find out what you can expect to pay.
Yes, landlords in England must arrange electrical inspections and testing for rental properties at least every five years. They must also provide the report to tenants and keep evidence that any required remedial work has been completed. Rules vary across the UK, so landlords should check the requirements that apply in their area.
PAT testing itself is not always a legal requirement, but businesses and landlords do have a duty to keep electrical equipment safe. PAT testing is one common way to check that portable appliances are in a safe condition.
How often appliances need testing depends on the type of equipment, where it is used and how often it is handled.
The time needed for an EICR depends on the size of the property, the number of circuits and the condition of the installation. A small flat may take a couple of hours, while a larger home or commercial building can take much longer.
Your electrician should be able to give you an estimated timescale before the appointment.
If your property receives an unsatisfactory report, the electrician will explain what faults were found and what remedial work is needed.
Once the problems are resolved, you may need written confirmation or an updated report to show that the installation is safe.
Pro tip: Need to change a light fitting? Read our guide to find out whether you need an electrician.
It is not usually a legal requirement, but it can be a sensible step, especially with older properties. An inspection can highlight hidden electrical issues before you commit to the purchase.
If the property has old wiring, frequent DIY work, or no recent electrical paperwork, arranging an inspection can give you extra peace of mind.
Pro tip: Need urgent help? Check out our guide to emergency electrician costs, including the factors that affect pricing and ways to save money.