Don’t overlook your electrical inspection certificate

As leisure and entertainment venues prepare for a busy summer season, it’s vital that business owners take time to check their premises are fully certified and compliant, particularly when it comes to electrical safety. Every year, faulty electrical installations are responsible for fires, equipment failure and, tragically, injury or even death through electric shock.

These risks aren’t just operational concerns, they carry serious legal and financial consequences too. We’ve seen time and again how a missing or expired electrical inspection certificate can put insurance cover at risk. In fact, it’s often the first thing a loss adjuster will ask for after an incident. Without one, insurers may not provide protection, leaving you exposed just when you need support the most.

That’s why we strongly advise business owners to ensure they have a valid Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) in place. This report helps satisfy the obligations set out under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Many insurers now include EICRs as a condition of cover, and it’s not something that should fall down the list of priorities.

It’s also important to understand how often inspections should take place. The British Standard 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) outlines the required frequency for electrical testing and inspection, which varies depending on the type of business and the level of risk. Venues with high footfall or more complex systems may require more frequent checks. We’ve also seen more insurers request thermographic surveys. These use infrared imaging to detect defects and hot spots that might otherwise go unnoticed – issues that, if left unresolved, could pose serious risks to people and property.

Ultimately, electrical safety is about more than compliance. It’s about protecting your staff, your customers and your livelihood. Take time to ensure your documentation is in order.

We’re here to help you meet these requirements and ensure your cover gives you the protection you need.