The four EICR codes at a glance
An EICR records observations using four classification codes set out in the model forms of BS 7671. Any C1, C2 or FI makes the overall report unsatisfactory. C3 on its own does not.
| Code | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present — risk of injury now | Immediate |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous | Urgent |
| FI | Further investigation required without delay | Urgent |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | Advisory |
C1 — Danger present
C1 means someone could be injured by the installation as it stands today. The inspector should make the item safe before leaving site — usually by isolating the circuit or removing the damaged accessory — and tell the person responsible for the property straight away.
- Exposed live conductors, for example a broken socket faceplate
- Missing blanking plates leaving live busbars accessible in the consumer unit
- Accessible live parts after DIY work or water damage
- Reversed polarity that leaves a metal light fitting live
C2 — Potentially dangerous
C2 is not an immediate danger, but it would become one if a fault occurred or conditions changed. It is the most common reason a report fails, and it needs urgent remedial work.
- No main protective bonding to incoming gas or water pipes
- Earth fault loop impedance too high for the protective device to disconnect in time
- Socket circuits likely to supply equipment outdoors without RCD protection
- Signs of overheating at terminals or accessories
- Combustible consumer unit in an escape route where this creates a fire risk
C3 — Improvement recommended
C3 means the installation does not meet the current edition of BS 7671 in some way, but it is not dangerous. A report with only C3 observations can still be satisfactory. Many owners deal with C3 items when other work is happening, such as replacing a consumer unit.
- Missing warning notices or circuit charts
- Older-style plastic consumer units in locations where they are not a hazard
- Lighting circuits without RCD protection in some situations
FI — Further investigation required without delay
FI is used when the inspector has seen something that could be a C1 or C2 but cannot confirm it within the agreed extent of the inspection. A common example is a circuit that cannot be traced, or a test result that points to a hidden fault. Until the investigation is finished, treat an FI with the same urgency as a C2.
Satisfactory or unsatisfactory?
The overall assessment on the front of the report is unsatisfactory if there is at least one C1, C2 or FI. Once the remedial work is done and tested, the electrician issues the paperwork for that work — usually a Minor Works Certificate or an Electrical Installation Certificate — and the combination shows the installation is now safe for continued use. Some landlords and agents also ask for a fresh satisfactory EICR.
Polarity explains every observation in plain English, gives each one a fixed remedial price and can usually carry out C1 and C2 fixes on the same visit. See remedial pricing or the EICR cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Does a C3 fail an EICR?
No. C3 means improvement is recommended. A report with only C3 observations can still be satisfactory.
Does FI make an EICR unsatisfactory?
Yes. An FI means something may be dangerous and needs investigation without delay, so the report is recorded as unsatisfactory until it is resolved.
How quickly must a landlord fix C1 and C2 codes?
In the private rented sector in England, within 28 days of the inspection, or sooner if the report says so. C1 items should be made safe straight away.
Can the same electrician carry out the repairs?
Yes. Polarity prices each C1, C2 and FI observation on the report, and can often complete the work on the same visit, then issue the certification for that work.
Book an EICR in London & the South East
NICEIC-registered inspectors, 24-hour digital reports and fixed remedial prices across London, Essex, Kent and Surrey.
Book or request a quoteMore EICR guides
How long does an EICR take?
Typical EICR times for flats, houses, HMOs and commercial premises in London, what slows an inspection down, how to prepare and when you get the report.
Landlord EICR requirements: what the law says
Do landlords need an EICR? The Electrical Safety Standards Regulations 2020 explained: five-year testing, deadlines for tenants and councils, 28-day remedials and £30,000 fines.
EICR, EIC or electrical safety certificate: which do you need?
The difference between an EICR, an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC), a Minor Works Certificate and an 'electrical safety certificate', and which one landlords, buyers and businesses need.