EICR codes at a glance
| Code | Meaning | Does it affect a satisfactory result? | Typical next step |
|---|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present — risk of injury | Yes — makes the report unsatisfactory | Urgent remedial work required |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous | Yes — makes the report unsatisfactory | Remedial work required |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | No — does not on its own make the report unsatisfactory | Improvement advisable but not required under the regulations |
| FI | Further investigation required without delay | The report cannot be considered satisfactory until investigated | Further investigation required |
What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report is a formal assessment of the condition of a property's fixed electrical installation — the consumer unit, wiring, sockets, switches and accessories. For most private rental properties in England, an EICR is required at least every five years, or sooner where the report sets a shorter next-inspection date. Always follow the next-inspection date on your report.
What does C1 mean on an EICR?
A C1 means danger is present — there is a risk of injury. It is the most immediately serious classification and requires urgent remedial action. An EICR containing a C1 is unsatisfactory.
Why it matters: a C1 indicates an actual danger that should be addressed without delay, often by making the affected part safe (for example isolating a damaged accessory) before a full repair. The specific action depends on the installation and the inspector's professional assessment.
What does C2 mean on an EICR?
A C2 means a potentially dangerous condition has been identified. Remedial work is required, and an EICR containing a C2 is unsatisfactory.
What happens next: arrange for a suitably qualified electrical professional to carry out the remedial work within the required timescale. A C2 does not automatically mean the whole property needs rewiring — see below.
What does C3 mean on an EICR?
A C3 means improvement is recommended. It does not on its own make an EICR unsatisfactory and does not by itself require remedial work under the electrical safety regulations. However, the recommended improvements may still be sensible to carry out, particularly where they relate to safety or future-proofing the installation.
What does FI mean on an EICR?
FI means further investigation is required without delay. The inspector could not reach an adequate conclusion about part of the installation — for example because access or testing was limited — and needs to investigate it further. FI is not something a landlord should ignore: until the investigation is complete, that part of the installation cannot be considered satisfactory.
Which EICR codes mean the report is unsatisfactory?
A C1 or C2 makes the EICR unsatisfactory — remedial work is required. FI requires further investigation and can also mean the report cannot be considered satisfactory until that investigation is completed. A C3 alone does not make a report unsatisfactory.
Does a C2 mean the whole property needs rewiring?
No, not automatically. Remediation can range from replacing a single damaged accessory or correcting a bonding connection, through to more extensive work, depending on the actual condition and the inspector's findings. The scope of work is determined by the specific observations on the report, not by the code alone.
Does a C3 have to be repaired?
Not purely because it is a C3 under the electrical safety regulations described here. A C3 does not make a report unsatisfactory and does not by itself require remedial work. Improvements may still be advisable, and many landlords choose to act on sensible C3 observations, but they are not required remedial work in the same way as C1 or C2 findings.
What happens after C1, C2 or FI?
Required remedial or investigative work is arranged and completed within the required timescale, then appropriate written confirmation or certification is obtained. Our unsatisfactory EICR guide walks through the full process, including the documents to retain.
How long does a landlord have to carry out EICR remedial work?
Under current England regulations, required remedial or investigative work generally needs to be completed within 28 days of the report, or sooner where the report itself specifies a shorter period. Landlords should also retain the appropriate written confirmation of completed work and provide documents to the required recipients in accordance with the applicable rules. See the GOV.UK electrical safety guidance for the current detail.
Common reasons electrical issues are identified
Observations on an EICR can arise from a range of conditions. Examples include:
- Damaged or aged accessories (sockets, switches, accessories with cracked casings).
- Issues with protective devices (e.g. bonding or earthing concerns).
- Inappropriate or non-compliant alterations to the installation.
- Signs of damage, overheating or deterioration.
The classification depends on the actual installation and the inspector's professional assessment — the same condition can receive a different code depending on context.
What we see in Peterborough rental properties
We carry out EICR inspections and remedial work across Peterborough. Observations we encounter can include aged consumer units, damaged accessories and earthing or bonding matters. We describe these in general terms — every installation is assessed on its own condition.
How much do EICR remedial works cost?
EICR remedial work is quoted after inspection because the cost depends on the number and nature of observations, access, parts, any re-testing and certification, and whether circuits need further investigation. Our Prices page shows our current EICR inspection rates (from £120 + VAT for a 1–2 bed property); remedial work itself is quoted on assessment. See our EICR service page for details.
Official sources and further reading
Reviewed using official GOV.UK electrical safety guidance current on 30 September 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.