Identify what belongs to the instruction
A consumer unit, a detached building and a shared hallway may not form one simple inspection. Explain the installation and who is authorised to instruct work in each area.
Talk about testing conditions
Tell the inspecting electrician about occupancy, sensitive equipment and access controls. Inspection and testing can involve power interruptions; planning around them is part of a useful brief.
Keep the follow-up distinct
An EICR records findings and limitations. Repairs or additional investigation may be separate jobs. Keep previous reports, alteration certificates and any evidence of completed work together so the next discussion starts with the records.
A short preparation list
- Confirm the boards, circuits and spaces in scope.
- Find previous inspection and alteration records.
- Discuss access and possible power interruptions.
- Disclose known faults and equipment that must remain powered.
Share what is available and explain anything that cannot be accessed safely. Leave equipment covers, gas fittings and unsafe spaces untouched.
Before the instruction is agreed
Check that the full address, work and expected output match the property. Say whether the assessment concerns one unit, several dwellings or a shared system. A previous report can be useful without proving that the new instruction has the same scope.
Keep a note of the questions still to resolve: the evidence needed, professional role, access arrangements and whether follow-up work is separate. Ask the team to explain a gap before attendance rather than relying on an assumption.
Put the next step in the right place
Use the service brief for the included output and exclusions. Use the booking or quotation form for the property details. Keep the eventual assessment with the address records; this guide is preparation material rather than a report on the building.