What is covered?
The certificate covers the following aspects of the permanent electrical installation:
The main distribution board and any secondary distribution boards if applicable.
Light switches and socket outlets.
It is checked if the wiring is in good condition and if there is compatibility with the circuit breakers that are installed.
It is checked if there have been isolators installed for fixed appliances like stoves and geysers.
It is confirmed that all metal parts of the installation are earthed correctly.
The checking of the wiring that leads to fixed home equipment is included in the certification.
The placement of electrical switches in relation to water points is checked.
The height of the DB board from ground level. The main power switch must be easily accessible.
Confirmation that every room has at least one functioning light.
What is NOT covered?
There is often confusion about what is covered, and what not. It is noted that the ECOC covers the electrical installation, and certifies that appliances are connected correctly to the main electrical installation. It does however not include:
The functionality of fixed electric appliances like pumps and motors, lightbulbs, air-conditioners, ovens, stoves, heating panels and alarms, to name a few as example.
Underfloor heating not covered.
Temporary installations, for instance an outside light that is connected with a lead to an inside plug and can easily be unplugged and removed.
Who Pays?
The electrical certificate and all repairs associated with the certification, are payable by the seller.
2 Years
Validity of Electrical COC after issue, provided that no changes or amendments have been made to the electrical installation since issue.
Cost
Please ask your qualified electrician in advance. The inspection fee is usually mid-to upper three figures, and the repair cost dependent on repairs needed.
Timing is everything!
Usually the compliance certificates are done once an offer to purchase has been accepted, and the suspensive conditions have been met. Where possible, we recommend having the initial inspection done before marketing the property in order to obtain the quote for the repairs that will be needed for the certification. This enables sellers to factor in these costs in their financial planning and when considering offers on their property.
Money Saving Tipp
Where the inspection is done before introducing buyers to the property, sellers have the possibility to manage expectations in potentially removing faulty outside light installations, ponds and pumps that are possibly expensive to repair, before they become part of the sale.
Need a light?
Please note that functioning light bulbs are not covered by the electrical certificate. It is prudent to replace all faulty light bulbs before the inspection is done, in order to speed up the inspection time and also to meet buyer expectations and make the process a smooth and an enjoyable one.