Fixed Wire Testing
✓ Demonstrate compliance with IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 through a formal Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
✓ Help ensure the ongoing safety of fixed electrical installations for staff, visitors and occupants
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Fixed wire testing is a critical safety and compliance requirement for commercial and industrial buildings.
We carry out fixed wire inspections across a wide range of premises, providing clear reporting and practical insight to support ongoing electrical safety management, helping you achieve compliance with the IET wiring regulations (BS7671).
Our fixed wire testing services assess the condition and safety of permanent electrical installations, helping organisations identify defects, reduce risk and meet UK regulatory obligations.
What is fixed wire testing?
Fixed wire testing, also known as fixed wiring inspection or periodic inspection, is the formal assessment of a building’s permanent electrical installation. This includes wiring, circuits, distribution boards and associated components that form part of the fixed infrastructure.
The purpose of fixed wire testing is to confirm that electrical installations are safe for continued use, compliant with regulations, and free from defects that could present a risk of electric shock, fire or equipment failure.
Findings are documented in an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), which provides a formal record of the installation’s condition at the time of inspection.
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WHAT DOES FIXED WIRE TESTING INVOLVE?
Fixed wire testing combines visual inspection with a series of electrical tests designed to assess the safety and integrity of the installation. This typically includes:
- Inspections: Thorough inspections of your electrical installations in line with required frequencies, including wiring, distribution boards, switches, sockets, and relevant components.
- Testing and verification: Rigorous testing to ensure the integrity, safety, and compliance of your electrical systems.
- Hazard identification: Identification of potential hazards such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, inadequate insulation or outdated equipment.
Our fixed wire testing services
Our fixed wire testing services are delivered across commercial, industrial and public sector environments. We work with organisations to plan and carry out inspections efficiently, minimising disruption while maintaining safety and accuracy.
Services include fixed wire inspections and testing, EICR Reports, support for compliance, audit and insurance requirements, and repeat inspection programmes for ongoing safety management.
Fixed wire testing forms part of a wider approach to electrical safety. For organisations requiring a broader assessment of electrical systems beyond permanent wiring, our electrical testing and inspection services provide additional support.
What are the benefits of fixed wire testing?
- Demonstrate compliance with IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 through a formal Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
- Help ensure the ongoing safety of fixed electrical installations for staff, visitors and occupants
- Identify defects and deterioration within permanent wiring and circuits before they present a safety risk
- Support proactive planning of remedial works following inspection findings, helping prioritise actions and manage budgets
- Provide insurers and stakeholders with independent evidence of the condition of fixed electrical systems
- Benefit from a fully independent fixed wire inspection, with no commercial incentive to carry out remedial works
- Improve efficiency by using a single specialist provider for fixed wire inspections across multiple sites
- Access digital EICR reports and inspection data online, providing 24/7 visibility of fixed wire testing results
- Rely on a nationwide team of qualified fixed wire inspection engineers, supported by central scheduling and quality assurance
Why choose Bureau Veritas for fixed wire testing?
With over 190 years of expertise, Bureau Veritas provides trusted, independent fixed wire testing services that help organisations manage electrical safety with confidence.
We combine technical competence with robust reporting and national coverage, supporting organisations across multiple sites and sectors.
Our focus is on delivering clear outcomes: improved safety, regulatory confidence and reduced electrical risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Who can carry out a fixed wire test?
Fixed wire testing must be carried out by competent and qualified electrical professionals with the appropriate technical knowledge, experience and equipment. Using a trusted third-party provider helps ensure inspections are completed safely, accurately and in line with current standards and regulations.
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How often should fixed wire testing be carried out?
The recommended frequency of fixed wire testing depends on factors such as the type of premises, the nature of electrical usage, environmental conditions, and levels of wear and risk. Many commercial premises require fixed wire testing every five years, although higher-risk environments may require more frequent inspection.
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What does an EICR report show?
The outcome of fixed wire testing is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). The EICR provides a clear, auditable record that can be used to demonstrate compliance, manage risk and plan maintenance activity. This report:
- Records the condition of the electrical installation
- Identifies defects or non-compliances
- Assigns classification codes based on severity
- Highlights any remedial actions required
These certificates are documents which must be kept by both the "person ordering the work" (i.e. the owner) and the "competent person" (qualified electrician) completing the inspection and testing procedure.
DOWNLOAD OUR DUTY HOLDER RESPONSIBILITIES GUIDE TO ELECTRICAL COMPLIANCE
MAIA & SWIFT - AN EASY WAY TO MANAGE AND CONTROL YOUR GLOBAL ELECTRICAL INSPECTION PROCESS ONLINE
As part of our enhanced service – and free for mechanical inspection clients – we offer access to live, accurate and reliable data for all inspection reports using SWIFT, our online reporting system.
Developed in-house by our own team of experts, SWIFT is a web-based portal which gives our safe, secure, 24/7 access to your inspection records, visit reports and equipment lists.
Our other electrical services
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Opex Business Unit Director
Bureau Veritas
As part of the B&I OPEX services, Our Electrical Business unit team take great pride in delivering top-quality comprehensive electrical services across the UK. Our team of highly skilled and experienced engineers work tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive the most reliable, efficient, and safe electrical solutions tailored to their unique needs. With a deep understanding of the UK's electrical landscape and a relentless focus on innovation, we continue to set the standard for excellence in the industry.