A full EICR includes circuit-by-circuit electrical testing — insulation resistance testing, continuity testing, polarity verification, earth fault loop impedance measurement, and RCD performance testing. A visual inspection covers only what can be seen and assessed without testing equipment. It is faster, less disruptive, and cheaper — but cannot detect hidden defects within cable runs, inside back boxes, or in the fabric of the building. For landlord legal compliance in East London, only a full EICR satisfies the requirement.

No. The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require an "electrical installation condition report" carried out by a qualified person — which specifically means a full inspection and testing report to BS 7671. A visual inspection alone does not satisfy this requirement. Only a full EICR is legally compliant for landlord purposes in Tower Hamlets, Newham, Hackney, Waltham Forest, Redbridge, and Barking & Dagenham.

A visual inspection for a typical 3-bedroom East London property typically costs £80–£150. A written report is always included. If you subsequently commission a full EICR, the visual inspection cost is typically deducted from the EICR price where the same property is inspected within 3 months.

Yes — particularly when the seller cannot provide a recent EICR. A visual inspection by a NICEIC-approved inspector provides a professional assessment of obvious concerns, identifies whether the installation is likely to require significant remedial work, and gives you informed leverage during the conveyancing process. Particularly useful for buyers of older Victorian terraces in Bethnal Green, Bow, and Stepney, or warehouse conversions in Wapping and Limehouse.

Key areas we assess include: the type and condition of the consumer unit and protection devices; the type and condition of visible wiring (particularly looking for old rubber-insulated or fabric-covered cables common in older East London properties); the presence of proper earthing and main bonding; the condition of a sample of sockets, switches, and light fittings; evidence of DIY electrical work that may be substandard; and any obviously non-compliant installations in bathrooms or outdoor areas.

In most cases yes — if the property is available and occupants agree to temporary circuit isolation, we can carry out the full circuit testing on the same visit. We bring full testing equipment to every visual inspection visit so we can upgrade to a full EICR on request. This is particularly useful for property buyers in East London who need a full EICR quickly before exchange of contracts.

Yes — we offer same-day and next-day visual inspection bookings across all East London postcodes (E1–E17, IG1, IG11). Most visual inspections are completed within 1–2 hours with no disruption to occupants. Call 07852 280 518 for immediate availability in Whitechapel, Bethnal Green, Stratford, Canary Wharf, Walthamstow, Ilford, Barking, and all surrounding areas.

Yes — new build properties in East London (particularly in Stratford, Canary Wharf, Canning Town, and Barking) can benefit from a visual inspection before or shortly after occupation. While new builds should have an Electrical Installation Certificate from the builder, a visual inspection by an independent NICEIC-approved inspector provides reassurance that the installation has been completed correctly and identifies any obvious concerns before the defects liability period expires.