Have you recently had an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carried out at your property? You should have received an electrical report detailing the results. However, this can often be filled with technical terms and coded observations, so you may feel unsure whether you failed your EICR. It’s helpful to have a handy guide to understand the safety and condition of your electrical installations, so you can take appropriate action if needed.
Here are the different EICR codes to know about.
EICR C1 code
EICR C1 (Code 1) indicates an immediate danger with your electrical system. This is the most serious classification and means that your engineer has identified a direct risk of electric shock, fire or injury.
Typical C1 examples include exposed live wires, damaged sockets (with live parts), and faulty consumer units that present fire risks.
When a C1 code is identified, electricians will often take on-the-spot action to make the issue safe, isolating part of the circuit or applying temporary protection. Further electrical repairs will still be required, but the immediate hazard is addressed before the engineer leaves.
EICR C2 code
EICR C2 (Code 2) means the installation has a defect that isn’t dangerous right now, but it could become so in the near future. These issues require prompt corrective work to ensure the system remains safe.
Examples of C2 hazards include missing earthing or bonding on gas or water pipes, deteriorating wiring insulation, poorly installed fixtures, and damaged accessories without exposed live parts (yet).
While they may not require immediate isolation like C1 hazards, C2 codes remain very serious. Repairs must be carried out before the installation can be considered compliant.
EICR C3 code
EICR C3 (Code 3) indicates that while the installation is safe for continued use, there is room for improvement. This is the only code that does not prevent the report from being marked as satisfactory.
Common C3 observations include old-style consumer units without modern safety features and outdated fittings that still function safely. You may also have optional upgrades recommended, like adding RCD protection to circuits.
A C3 showcases best practice rather than urgent safety concerns, which is useful if you wish to modernise your property, build an extension or improve electrical safety.
EICR FI code
EICR FI codes may be issued if an engineer believes there may be a safety concern, but they can’t confirm it during the inspection. This typically occurs when parts of the installation are inaccessible or when test results suggest an underlying issue requiring deeper investigation.
Situations warranting an EICR FI code include circuits that cannot be fully tested due to access restrictions or unusual readings that indicate hidden faults. Your EICR may be classed as unsatisfactory until the additional investigations are carried out and any issues are resolved.
Book a new EICR with DTEEC
DTEEC provides EICR reports in South London, Surrey and surrounding areas, covering Tooting, Wandsworth and beyond. For free help and advice, contact DTEEC today.
