This blog post will explain what electrical certificates are and why they’re important. We’ll also go through the significance of certification software to streamline paperwork.
What Are Digital Electrical Certificates?
Electrical certificates, also known as e-certs, state the results of electrical work. They confirm the condition of electrical installations. These forms detail the type of work and the results of electrical tests. They also tend to include observations and any recommendations following the tests.
Digital certificates are like paper ones, but you can access and edit them on your PC or mobile device. Using specialised certification software to document your electrical certificate keeps everything centralised.
Contractors are encouraged to keep copies of reports and certificates for electrical work. You can take note of important fields such as inspection details and test results. This applies whether it is a big domestic installation or a smaller routine check. Keeping the correct electrical certificate can help schedule any future inspections. It also certifies that your work complies with the relevant safety regulations.
Types of Electrical Certificates and Reports
There are many types of electrical certificates required for different areas of work. Whatever the job is, an electrical certificate confirms the results of appliance tests.
When carrying out tests on existing installations, an electrical report will be necessary. For new installations for a rewiring or new fuse, you’ll need electrical certificates.
Different types of electrical certificates include:
- Minor Electrical Works Installation Certificate
- Electrical Installation Certificate
- Electrical Equipment Testing (EET)
- Visual Condition Report
- Electrical Danger Notification
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
This range of reports covers all types of electrical work. Document everything from the first installation to the maintenance of electrical equipment. They include fields that are specific to the work at hand. This way, you don’t need to worry about forgetting key details when filling out paperwork.
Why Use Digital Electrical Certificates?
Digital electrical certificates are particularly beneficial in the technology-driven age we live in.
Utilising digital certificates for electrical work is important for your records. They are also useful because they:
- Can include your company logo for brand awareness
- Have clear layouts with the correct fields you need
- Can be easily emailed or printed for your customer
- Are professional in appearance – no more indecipherable scribbles
- Provide reassurance to your customers, building trust with your loyal clients
With digital forms, you can also supply the customer with completed documents quickly. This gives them proof the installation is safe and meets safety standards.
Electrical Safety Standard Regulations
It is important to have the correct certificates you need when responding to jobs. Electrical safety regulations for rental properties were introduced in 2020. It requires landlords to ensure all electrical installations are inspected. They need to make sure appliances meet safety standards.
So, what does this mean for contractors?
You might see an increase in demand for this type of inspection. It is also a requirement to supply an electrical installation condition report. This will reflect the completed tests follow safety standards.
For more, see the Government guidance on private rented sector electrical safety standards.
Electrical Certificate Software
Paperwork can take up a lot of valuable time for businesses. An organised method to complete work to a high standard is important to save time.
For a growing business, it can be difficult to keep track of incoming work without the help of technology. But you may ask yourself: “Why do I need certification software?”
The reasons can be incredibly beneficial for electrical companies. You will no longer need to print out certificates and take them onsite, only to realise you forgot a pen. Physical paperwork leads to the risk of losing or ruining them.
Produce professional electrical certificates every time with a dedicated digital system. It keeps everything centralised, so you don’t have to search high and low to find what you need.
Clik’s NICEIC Cert Software
NICEIC electrical certificates are the central point of Clik’s NICEIC Cert Software. With over 50 e-certs available in the software, you can carry out a range of testing with ease. They follow the 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations, including 18th Edition Amendment 3 and 18th Edition Amendment 2. This way, you can perform high-quality tests and complete the appropriate paperwork.
You might need to complete a conditioning report for a private landlord. This is particularly key for the electrical safety standard regulations. From installation certs to condition reports, you can find the cert you need in the software.
Field engineers can continue their work remotely with electrical certificate apps. Access and fill out your work onsite with field licensing.
Want to try certification software for yourself, but don’t know where to start? Try our NICEIC certification software for free today to organise your electrical certificates.
This post was first published in August 2020 and has been edited with updated information.