Visual Condition Report
Visual Inspections are an inspection of the fixed wiring electrical installation, complete with a full written report. The report is intended to be issued only for the
purposes of reporting on the condition of an existing electrical installation. It is important to carry out regular visual inspections on properties and installations especially properties that are rented as many alterations, damage and DIY work can go on which will affect the wiring installation.A visual electrical survey is carried out to identify any defects, damage and wear and tear of the electrical installation. These visual inspections are usually carried out with a BS7671 test that ensures the electric wiring meets the required level of compliance in line with the national safety standard. A visual inspection alone does not involve circuit testing so it is only in part able to determine if the installation is safe for use. Visual Inspections are ideal as an interim between formal periodic testing to find any damage or deterioration that may cause a potential hazard in properties like rented homes.
XS Engineering will provide you with a full written report on the findings from the visual inspection. The report should identify, so as far as is reasonably practicable, any damage, deterioration and visually-evident defects which:
may give rise to danger require improvement require further investigation or do not comply with the latest edition iof the national standard for electrical safety BS7671: Requirements for Electrical Installations
On a domestic building you should never leave it longer than 10 years before carrying out a full BS7671 Periodic Inspection or a BS7671 IEE Test however if you own a commercial or rented property then you should test more frequently.
Many people are under the opinion that visual inspections and test are only needed on older properties but many buildings can change owners on a regular basis therefore it is important to make sure the previous owner did not subject the electric installations to any misuse or attempt any DIY electrics that do not comply to safety regulations.
Any property, whether it is domestic or commercial, that is over 10 years old could have inadequate earthing, circuit protection or bonding. One of the most common problems found in visual inspections and tests are loose connections which, if left unattended, can lead to electric shocks and or even fires.
If you are a Mortgage lender, letting agent, a landlord, a surveyor or work for an insurance company then visual inspections and BS7671 IEE Tests will be necessary.
note: a full periodic inspection may be advised on our engineers’ findings. If you are not sure if you need a full Periodic Inspection please call and we can help you.
Summary of items inspected on a Visual Condition Survey
Joints and Connections
It is not practicable to inspect every joint and termination in an electrical installation, nevertheless a sample inspection is made. An inspection is made of all accessible part of the electrical installation e.g. switchgear, distribution boards, and a sample of luminaire points and socket-outlets to ensure that all terminal connections of the conductors are properly installed and secured. Any signs of overheating and conductors, terminations or equipment will be thoroughly investigated and included in the Report.
Conductors
The means of identification of each conductor, including protective conductors, will be verified. The deterioration of, or damage to, conductors and their insulation and their protective coverings, if any, will be noted.
NB. Cables coated in black- rubber were phased out in the 1960s or cables coated in lead or fabric are even older and may need replacing (modern cables use PVC insulation).
Flexible cables and cords
Where a flexible cable or cord forms part of a fixed wring installation, the inspection will include:
- the examination of the cable or cord for damage or defects
- examination of the terminations and anchorages for damage or defects
- the correctness of its installation with regard to additional mechanical protection, heat resistance sleeving, etc.
Accessories and Switchgear
It is recommended that a random sample of a minimum of 10 per cent of all switching devices is given a thorough internal visual inspection of accessible parts to assess their electrical and mechanical condition.
Protection against Thermal Effects
The presence of fire barriers, seals and means of protection against thermal effects will be verified.
Protection against Direct and Indirect Contact of live parts
The means of protection against contact with live parts by means of SELV, direct contact and indirect contact will be verified.
Protective Devices
The presence, accessibility, marking and condition of devices for electrical protection, isolation and switching will be verified. It should be established that each circuit is adequately protected with the correct type, size and rating of fuse or circuit-breaker. The suitability of each protective and monitoring device and its overload setting will be checked.
Marking and Labeling
The labeling of each circuit will be verified. Notices or labels are required at the following points and equipment within an installation:
- at the origin of every installation
- where different voltages are present
- earthing and bonding connections
- Residual Current Devices (RCD's)
- where non-standard colours are used
