Does an EICR Test Every Socket & Circuit? Sample Testing Explained (2025 UK Guide)
🔌 Does an EICR Test Every Socket & Circuit? Sample Testing Explained (2025 UK Guide)
One of the most common questions homeowners ask during an EICR is:
“Do electricians test every single socket and every circuit?”
The answer depends on the type of property, the installation condition, and what the electrician finds during the inspection.
In this 2025 guide, we explain exactly what is tested, what is sampled, and why some circuits may need full 100% testing.
📘 Contents
- 📌 Quick Answer
- 🔍 Do Electricians Test Every Socket?
- 🧪 What Is “Sample Testing” in an EICR?
- ⚡ When Full Testing (100%) Is Required
- 📂 Are All Circuits Tested?
- ⚠️ Limitations & Inaccessible Points
- ❌ Why Properties Fail Due to Limited Testing
- 🔗 Related EICR Guides
- ❓ FAQs
📌 Quick Answer
No — an EICR does not always test every socket or every part of every circuit.
Instead, electricians use:
- sample testing (industry standard for occupied homes)
- full testing when faults are suspected
- visual inspection where access is limited
But if problems appear during sampling, the electrician may test every socket and every circuit in full.
🔍 Do Electricians Test Every Socket?
In most homes, electricians will:
- test a sample of sockets on each circuit
- focus on high-risk areas (kitchens, bathrooms, outdoors)
- test more sockets if early faults are found
Testing every socket is often impractical because:
- furniture blocks access
- tenants may refuse access
- disconnecting appliances may cause risk
- some sockets may need removing from walls
If unsafe readings appear, the electrician will expand the test.
For socket-specific checks, see:
Does an EICR Check Sockets?
🧪 What Is “Sample Testing” in an EICR?
Sample testing means the electrician tests a proportion of accessories (typically 40–60% depending on access and condition).
This is standard practice in:
- occupied homes
- furnished rental properties
- HMOs
- commercial offices
The sample must be representative — meaning:
- sockets in different rooms
- sockets at start and end of circuits
- any with visible damage
- kitchen sockets due to high loads
If the sample is clean, full testing is not required.
⚡ When Full Testing (100%) Is Required
Full testing becomes mandatory if:
- the sample shows faults
- polarity issues are found
- earth continuity is inconsistent
- ring main readings don’t match
- DIY wiring is discovered
- the property has a history of electrical problems
In these cases, the electrician MUST inspect:
- every socket
- every light fitting
- every junction box
- every circuit
This may take hours longer.
📂 Are All Circuits Tested?
Yes — every circuit is tested during an EICR, but the extent of the test varies.
All circuits receive:
- continuity testing
- RCD/RCBO testing (where installed)
- insulation resistance test
- earthing & bonding checks
- visual inspection
But not every accessory (socket/light/switch) is tested unless needed.
To learn what’s included, see: What’s Included in an EICR
⚠️ Limitations & Inaccessible Points
Electricians must record limitations on the report if:
- furniture blocks access
- fixed appliances cover sockets
- lofts are unsafe to enter
- floor coverings prevent access
- tenants refuse access to rooms
These are usually marked as “LIM” on the EICR.
❌ Why Properties Fail Due to Limited Testing
If a sample reveals problems, it often results in a C2 – Potentially Dangerous code.
Common examples include:
- loose socket terminals
- incorrect polarity
- no earth continuity
- burn marks on sockets
- ring main ends not connected
For code meanings, see: EICR Codes Explained
🔗 Related EICR Guides
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do they test every socket?
Not always — most homes use sample testing unless faults appear.
Do they test every circuit?
Yes — circuits are always tested, even if some accessories are not.
Can I request full testing?
Yes — you can request 100% testing for peace of mind.
Why don't electricians test every socket by default?
Access limitations, safety concerns and standard EICR procedure.
Does sample testing mean the report is less accurate?
No — unless faults show up. If they do, full testing is performed.
Sample testing is a standard part of EICRs in 2025 — but understanding how it works helps you know exactly what to expect during your inspection.