What it is
When an installation is altered or extended, the new work must be inspected and tested, and the existing installation must be checked to confirm it can safely support the change — for example that the earthing, bonding and supply are adequate. We test the work we carry out and issue an EIC or MEIWC as appropriate. Where the alteration was made by others, we can inspect and report on its condition.
What's included
- Scope agreed in writing
- Inspection and testing
- Appropriate certificate or report
Not included
- Design and installation unless separately agreed
Who needs it
- Extensions and refurbishments
- Change-of-use projects
- Contractors needing independent testing
What you'll receive
EIC, MEIWC or EICR depending on who carried out the work and its extent.
How often
After each alteration.
What the rules say
Each point is labelled so you can tell what's law, what's a British Standard, and what's good practice or comes from your lease, licence or insurer.
- Legal requirementEngland
Notifiable work in homes (Part P)
In England, installing a new circuit, replacing a consumer unit, or adding to or altering circuits in a special location (near a bath, shower, pool or sauna) is notifiable. A registered competent person self-certifies the work and building control is notified within 30 days; otherwise it goes through building control.
Sources: Building Regulations reg 12 (opens external site): Building Regulations 2010, regulation 12 (notifiable electrical work); Building Regulations sch 4 (opens external site): Building Regulations 2010, schedule 4 (special locations); Approved Document P (opens external site): Approved Document P: electrical safety in dwellings
- Technical standardUK (BS 7671)
New work is designed and certified to BS 7671:2018+A4:2026
Any new or altered circuit is designed, installed, inspected and tested to the current edition of the wiring regulations and certified with an Electrical Installation Certificate or Minor Works Certificate. From 15 October 2026 that means Amendment 4.
Sources: IET (Amendment 4) (opens external site): IET and BSI publish Amendment 4:2026 to BS 7671:2018; IET (current BS 7671) (opens external site): Ensure you are up to date with BS 7671
Before your appointment
- Tell us what was altered, by whom, and whether it was inspected and tested as it was installed.
- Have any certificates for the work to hand.
If something's found
- If the work was done by someone else and wasn't certified, we can report on its condition with an EICR. We can't issue a certificate for work we didn't design or see installed.
- Defects are quoted for and certified once put right.
What affects the price
- Extent of the alterations
- Whether records exist
- Access to the new work
Read more
- EICR, EIC or Minor Works Certificate: which one do you need?
Three documents that are often confused, what each is for, and which one proves remedial work is done.