01/06/2026
⚡ Why electricians can’t always “just sign work off” ⚡
A common one I get asked is:
“Can you just do the EICR / finish the work / issue the certificate after someone else has started?”
The simple answer is usually no.
If another contractor has already completed work such as a consumer unit replacement or started remedials, the responsibility for certification, testing and notification sits with the person carrying out those works.
As a fully registered and qualified electrician for inspection, testing, domestic and commercial installations, I can only certify work I have inspected, tested and been responsible for carrying out.
For works such as consumer unit replacements, the installer should be providing:
✅ Full testing results
✅ Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)
✅ Building Regulations notification where applicable
✅ Responsibility for the installation completed
There is an increasing focus within the industry on competency, qualifications and accountability, which is a positive thing for customer safety and installation standards.
This isn’t electricians being awkward — it’s about making sure installations are safe, compliant, and that the correct person takes responsibility for the work completed.