Got an EICR back in Walsall with C1, C2, C3 or FI codes? What each code means, which ones make the report unsatisfactory, and what landlords need to do next.
An EICR, or Electrical Installation Condition Report, is a check of the fixed wiring in a property, and anything the electrician finds is given a code. The codes tell you how serious each item is and whether the report passes. There are four you will see.
C1 means danger present: there is an immediate risk of injury, and it is usually made safe on the spot. C2 means potentially dangerous: it needs urgent remedial work. FI means further investigation is needed without delay, because the electrician could not fully check something. C3 means improvement recommended: it does not meet current standards but is not dangerous. A report with any C1, C2 or FI is unsatisfactory. A report with only C3s is still satisfactory.
For landlords in England, an EICR is needed at least every five years, tenants must get a copy within 28 days, and any remedial work has to be done within 28 days, or sooner if the report says so. With so many rented terraces around Caldmore, Palfrey and Pleck, this is one of the questions we are asked most in Walsall.
01C1: danger present | Immediate risk. Usually made safe straight away before the electrician leaves. |
|---|---|
02C2: potentially dangerous | Needs urgent remedial work. Makes the report unsatisfactory. |
03FI: further investigation | Something could not be fully checked and needs looking at without delay. Also unsatisfactory. |
04C3: improvement recommended | Not to current standards but not dangerous. A report with only C3s still passes. |
05Landlords: the 28-day rule | Remedial work for C1, C2 and FI items must be done within 28 days, or sooner if stated, and written confirmation kept. |
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No. C3 is a recommendation. A report only fails with a C1, C2 or FI code.
In England, at least every five years, or sooner if the last report says so. Tenants must get a copy within 28 days.
The C1, C2 and FI items need putting right, then you get written confirmation the work is done.
It is not a legal requirement for owner-occupiers, but it is sensible every ten years or when buying an older home.