Failed EICR: What next?

When a periodic electrical inspection is carried out on an electrical system, the document produced (EICR) will outline the system details, important test results, and any observations.

What are Observations?

Observations are electrical circumstances that required bringing to the attention of the person ordering the inspection. These observations will highlight any defects, safety concerns, or improvement recommendations for the electrical system. Each observation is given a code that classifies its severity.

What are C1, C2,C3 codes?

There are a number of codes an electrician will use to show the electrical safety concerns within an electrical system. These are as follows:

• C1 – The most serious code that is applied to an observation. This code usually indicates that there is immediate danger such as live parts being exposed to the touch. IMMEDIATE remedial action is required to prevent harm.
• C2 – This code is also serious. This indicates potential danger such as thermal damage to electrical components. This requires URGENT remedial action.
• C3 – This code is applied to situations that are not immediately or potentially dangerous but they should not be ignored. A C3 code is a recommendation for safety improvements and is applied to situations that are not potentially dangerous at the moment but could possibly result in danger in the future. The code is also used for other reasons which may be more minor.
• FI – This code is applied where the inspector requires further investigation into the situation to determine if danger is present. The code is used when the inspector expects that they will find a dangerous situation leading to a C1 or C2 code. Most of the time further investigation will not take place at the time of the inspection if, for example, access is needed to be made or further labour is required to investigate fully. 

NOTE – A note can be used where something has been noticed by your inspector and doesn’t necessarily attract a code but they wish to bring the issue to your attention. 

What if the EICR FAILS!!

It is not the end of the world if an EICR is returned as UNSATISFACTORY. There are only two outcomes on an inspection report, these are SATISFACTORY or UNSATISFACTORY. If we have carried out an EICR on your property and the outcome is unsatisfactory then we are always happy to provide a quote for any remedial works that may be necessary. 

Do I need a Rewire if I have a FAILED EICR?

Not necessarily. Many electrical systems can last for several decades without the need for rewiring although systems that have been subject to heavy prolonged use may wear out more quickly. There may be a requirement, for instance, to swap the consumer unit, to install safety earthing to the pipework or to add electric shock protection in the form of RCD devices to bring the installation into a satisfactory state. 

What are the most common reasons for failure?

In domestic properties, typical reasons for failure include:

• Lack of addition protection from electric shock (RCD)
• Breaks on ring final circuits (socket outlet circuits)
• Missing earthing connections
• Thermal damage to fuse boxes, sockets, switches
• Loose sockets, covers and damage equipment

In commercial properties, typical reasons for failure include:

• Overloaded circuits
• Exposed live parts
• Damaged or Mismatched equipment
• Maximum loads exceeding system capabilities
• Missing Earth Connections

EICR in Salisbury

If you have had an EICR carried out by another company and need some repair works carried out or need an EICR completing then get in touch with us and we will do our best to assist. We are NICEIC approved contractors which means we are annually assessed, insured, and qualified to carry out electrical safety checks, EICRs, remedial works and much more.