What is the Meaning of Codes Used in EICR Report?

What do the codes in an EICR report mean?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report, known as an EICR, uses classification codes to describe the safety condition of a building’s electrical system. These codes help identify faults, risks and areas where improvements can enhance overall safety. The codes used are C1, C2, C3 and FI. Each code provides clear guidance on whether the installation is safe for continued use and if any corrective action is needed.

Understanding these codes is important for landlords, property managers and homeowners. They provide a reliable way to assess compliance with British Standard BS 7671, which is the UK’s national standard for electrical installations. The report also helps meet requirements set out in the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations.

Why are EICR codes important for electrical safety and compliance?

EICR codes are essential for identifying issues that can lead to electric shock, fire or long term system failure. They are used by qualified electricians to assess fixed wiring, sockets, consumer units and protective devices. Each code reflects the severity of the condition found during the inspection. Acting on these codes promptly supports tenant safety and ensures legal compliance.

Code C1 – What does a C1 code mean in an EICR?

Technical meaning

A C1 code means that there is an immediate electrical danger. This classification highlights a defect that could cause electric shock or fire if the installation is used. A qualified electrician will usually isolate the fault at the time of inspection to make the system temporarily safe.

Typical examples

• Exposed live parts due to broken accessories or missing covers

• Overheated or scorched wiring terminals inside distribution boards

• Loose or disconnected earth conductors on metal fittings

• Incorrect polarity on socket outlets

A C1 fault means the electrical installation is unsafe to use until it is repaired. Ignoring this type of code puts users at serious risk and may lead to prosecution under the Electricity at Work Regulations.

Code C2 – What does a C2 code mean?

Technical meaning

A C2 code signals that there is a potentially dangerous condition. While it may not pose an immediate threat, it can quickly become hazardous if left unaddressed. The installation will be deemed unsatisfactory if any C2 codes are noted.

Typical examples

• Missing or inadequate protective earthing for metal fixtures

• Cable insulation with visible damage

• Electrical accessories installed too close to sinks or water points

• Corroded terminals that increase the chance of loose connections or overheating

If your EICR includes C2 faults, urgent remedial work is necessary. Continued use of the electrical system is usually allowed, but it is important to arrange repairs without delay.

You can find more guidance about resolving unsatisfactory codes through our service page on electrical safety compliance for landlords.

Code C3 – What does a C3 code indicate?

Technical meaning

C3 means that improvement is recommended but not mandatory. The installation is safe for continued use and passes the EICR. However, the recommendation is included to help bring older systems up to current safety expectations.

Typical examples

• Consumer units without modern RCD protection

• Wiring that complies with older editions of BS 7671 but is now considered outdated

• Minor cosmetic damage on switches or sockets

• Missing or unclear labels on distribution boards

Carrying out suggested improvements can help reduce future repair costs and improve overall safety. For example, installing RCD protection enhances protection against electric shock.

FI – What does FI mean in an electrical report?

Technical meaning

FI stands for further investigation. It means that the electrician could not confirm whether a defect exists without additional tests or access. FI does not indicate whether a danger is present, only that more information is needed.

Typical examples

• Test results that suggest an unusual reading requiring confirmation

• Circuits not fully tested due to limited access

• Concealed wiring routes that cannot be inspected

• Incomplete documentation on older electrical installations

FI codes should be taken seriously. If left unresolved, they may prevent the issue of a satisfactory report and could hide faults that compromise safety. For follow-up investigations, visit our EICR follow-up testing services.

What happens during an EICR inspection?

A registered electrician carries out a visual and physical test of the fixed electrical system. The inspection includes the consumer unit, all accessible wiring, socket outlets, lighting points, switches and any fixed equipment like heaters or extractors.

Testing procedures include:

• Continuity of conductors

• Insulation resistance

• Polarity

• Earth fault loop impedance

• RCD operation

Each observation is recorded and given a classification code. The final report indicates whether the installation is satisfactory or requires work.

What should you do after receiving your EICR?

If the report is satisfactory

No action is required. However, you might want to plan for C3 improvements over time to maintain a high safety standard.

If the report is unsatisfactory

The next step is to:

• Fix any C1 or C2 issues quickly

• Schedule further investigation for any FI observations

• Keep documentation of all completed work including electrical installation certificates or minor works certificates

Once repairs are finished, you may need a partial or full retest to confirm compliance.

How often should EICRs be carried out?

The standard validity period for an EICR is five years. However, this can vary depending on the type of building and usage:

• Private rental homes: every five years or at change of tenancy

• HMOs: every five years or on license renewal

• Commercial properties: every five years or as recommended by the electrician

• Industrial sites: every one to three years depending on load and environment

Frequent inspections help identify age related wear and prevent future problems. Visit our guide to EICR frequency recommendations to check the right schedule for your property.

What are the risks of ignoring EICR codes?

Delaying action on any C1 or C2 fault can put occupants at risk of electrical fire or electric shock. Landlords who fail to carry out repairs could face fines of up to £30,000 under the Private Rented Sector regulations. Insurance claims may also be denied if a fire is caused by an unresolved fault.

Unresolved FI codes can mask serious safety issues. Even though C3 codes are advisory, leaving them unattended might lead to faults that would have been avoidable.

Do EICR codes follow BS 7671 standards?

Yes, EICR inspections are carried out using the latest version of BS 7671, often referred to as the IET Wiring Regulations. These standards outline acceptable limits for wiring systems, materials, and safety features such as circuit protection.

Each code is applied based on how the installation compares to the most recent requirements. For example, a lack of RCD protection in areas where it is now required would likely result in a C3 code.

Choosing the right electrician for your EICR

Only an electrician who is qualified and registered with a recognised scheme such as NICEIC, NAPIT or ELECSA can issue a valid EICR. Always check that the contractor has experience with the type of property you own. They should also hold valid public liability insurance.

You can find more advice on our qualified electrician checklist.

Final thoughts

EICR codes make it easier to understand the condition of your electrical installation. They highlight urgent risks, suggest areas for improvement and help ensure compliance with legal responsibilities. Whether it is an immediate hazard or a recommendation for future upgrades, acting on these observations supports the long term safety and reliability of your property.

Staying up to date with inspections and repairs builds trust with tenants and reduces unexpected costs. For more help or to book a qualified EICR inspection, contact our team at Landlord Building Certificates.