There are two different certificates for new electrical installations, alterations or additions – Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) and Minor Works Certificate (MWC).

EIC and MWC certificates are issued to verify the safety of an electrical installation when it is put into service. These certificates are also valuable for electricians carrying out inspections in the future.

They will use these past certificates to gain an understanding of the installation and compare current test results to see potential ageing and deterioration. This knowledge will help determine the next test and inspection date.

In the event of a claim for injury or fire, these certificates will be used as evidence to prove the safety of the original installation.

EIC certificates are issued for new, additional and alterations to a circuit. New circuits or full rewires are classed as new installs. Additions are when we add to a circuit, for example an additional socket.

Alterations are when we make a small change to a circuit. Work carried out that does not include a new circuit or work in a special location (outside, bathroom
etc), then receives a Minor Works Certificate (MWC).