Is a C2 a Fail on EICR?

Is a C2 a Fail on an Electrical Installation Condition Report?

A C2 classification on an Electrical Installation Condition Report means that part of the installation poses a potential safety risk. Although it does not indicate immediate danger, the presence of a C2 code means the EICR is unsatisfactory. For landlords and property owners, this classification must be addressed with urgent remedial work to bring the electrical installation in line with the current British Standard BS 7671. Until the issue is corrected and verified, the property cannot legally be let to tenants.

What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report?

A Safety Assessment for Fixed Electrical Systems

An Electrical Installation Condition Report, commonly known as an EICR, is a formal document issued following the inspection and testing of the fixed electrical wiring in a property. This includes consumer units, distribution boards, circuit breakers, sockets, switches and protective bonding. The aim is to evaluate the condition of the installation against the current edition of the IET Wiring Regulations.

This electrical safety check for landlords is especially important in the UK. The regulations require electrical safety checks at least every five years, or at the start of each new tenancy, to ensure continued compliance and occupant safety.

What Do the EICR Codes Mean?

During the inspection, the qualified electrician assigns codes based on the level of risk found:

• C1 indicates an immediate danger to life. Immediate action is required.

• C2 highlights a potentially dangerous condition that must be addressed urgently.

• C3 suggests improvement is recommended but does not require immediate action.

• FI means further investigation is necessary before a full assessment can be completed.

When a C1 or C2 code is identified, the EICR is classified as unsatisfactory. This requires action to make the electrical system safe and compliant.

What Does a C2 Code Mean on an EICR?

Understanding Potential Risk in Practical Terms

A C2 code indicates that while there is no immediate risk, the condition of the electrical installation could become dangerous if not corrected. It reflects a breach of the safety standards outlined in BS 7671.

Common examples of faults that may receive a C2 classification include:

• Lack of protective bonding to gas or water pipes

• Damaged cable insulation exposing live conductors

• Socket outlets located too close to water sources such as sinks

• Circuits lacking residual current device protection

• Evidence of overheating or signs of burning at connection points

These issues may lead to electric shock, fire or serious injury if left unresolved. The key point is that a C2 code flags a safety defect requiring urgent attention.

For more on the types of faults covered in EICRs, you can read our guide on EICR codes explained.

Can You Let a Property with a C2 on an EICR?

Legal and Safety Implications for Landlords

The presence of a C2 on an EICR means the report is not satisfactory. In legal terms, this means landlords cannot lawfully let or continue to let a property until the C2 issue is resolved and confirmed safe by a qualified electrician.

Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations, landlords in England must:

• Ensure electrical installations are inspected and tested at least every five years

• Supply a copy of the report to tenants within 28 days

• Carry out remedial work within 28 days or a shorter period if specified

• Provide written confirmation of completed work

Ignoring a C2 recommendation may lead to financial penalties and liability in the event of injury or damage. Furthermore, many property insurance policies may exclude claims if it is shown that known electrical defects were not repaired in time.

What Steps Should You Take After a C2 Classification?

Straightforward Process for Getting Back to Compliance

Once a C2 is identified, it is important to act without delay. The recommended steps are:

1. Speak to the electrician who completed the EICR and request a breakdown of the fault.
2. Obtain quotes from registered electricians to carry out the necessary work.
3. Arrange for the repairs to be completed by someone qualified to sign off on the correction.
4. Request a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate or similar document to confirm the issue has been resolved.
5. Share the updated documentation with tenants and keep records for local authority or insurance purposes.

For more detailed advice, we have a practical guide to landlord EICR responsibilities.

Preventing Future Electrical Safety Issues

Maintaining Compliance and Reducing Risk

A C2 code often results from wear and tear or outdated wiring that no longer meets the latest version of BS 7671. While not all issues can be prevented, there are sensible steps landlords can take to reduce the likelihood of future faults:

• Arrange for interim visual inspections every two to three years
• Encourage tenants to report issues such as flickering lights, overheating sockets or tripping circuits
• Replace older consumer units with modern ones that include RCD protection
• Keep accurate maintenance records and service history

Staying aware of updates to electrical installation certificate regulations also helps. British Standards are reviewed regularly and your installation may need upgrades to stay compliant, even if it was once fully certified.

Does a C2 Mean You Need a New EICR?

If the only issue in the report is a single C2, you do not need to get a full new EICR once the work is done. Instead, you should request written evidence from the electrician that the fault has been corrected. This can be in the form of a Minor Works Certificate or an Electrical Installation Certificate.

However, if several issues were identified or if an FI code was issued alongside the C2, a reinspection may be advised to verify full compliance.

By managing repairs promptly and maintaining proper records, landlords can meet their legal obligations and ensure tenants remain safe in their homes. Fixing a C2 is not just about meeting regulations. It is about protecting people and property from unnecessary risk.

Questions we get asked about C2 and EICR’s

1. What happens if I ignore a C2 issue on an EICR?
If a C2 fault is not fixed, the EICR remains unsatisfactory, which means the property is not legally compliant for rental. Ignoring it can lead to enforcement by the local authority, including fines up to £30,000. It can also invalidate property insurance policies if a claim arises from an unresolved electrical defect.

2. How quickly must a C2 issue be repaired after an EICR?
Landlords are required to carry out remedial work within 28 days of receiving the EICR, or sooner if specified in the report. After the repairs are completed, written confirmation of the work must be obtained and provided to both the tenant and the local council if requested.

3. Can I use any electrician to fix a C2 fault?
No. Only a qualified and registered electrician should carry out remedial work on a C2 issue. It is important that the electrician is part of a recognised scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT, as they will provide the necessary certification to prove the installation is now safe and compliant with BS 7671.

4. Do I need a full re-test after repairing a C2?
Not necessarily. If the C2 is the only issue, a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate is usually sufficient to confirm the repair. However, if there were multiple issues or if the electrician recommends it, a full re-test may be advised to ensure overall compliance and safety.

5. How does a C2 on an EICR affect my tenants?
A C2 fault must be fixed before the property can be rented or continue to be let legally. For tenants already living in the property, unresolved C2 issues could compromise their safety. Landlords are legally responsible for maintaining safe electrical installations, and failing to act on a C2 could put both the tenants and the property at risk.