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Understanding Your EICR Report: What the Codes Really Mean
Not long ago, a landlord in Plymouth contacted us after receiving an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) full of unfamiliar codes and comments. They weren’t sure what any of it meant, or whether the property was even safe to let. This kind of confusion is common, and it’s one of the main reasons we take time to explain every detail of an inspection. Understanding your EICR report doesn’t just help you stay compliant, it ensures you know exactly what’s happening with your electrical system and what actions to take next.
If you’ve recently had an EICR inspection and want to make sense of the results, this guide breaks down what the codes mean, why they matter, and how to respond to them.
What Is an EICR?
- An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a detailed assessment of the electrical systems in your property.
- It identifies potential hazards, defects, or deterioration that could pose safety risks.
- EICRs are required by law for rental properties and strongly recommended for homeowners and commercial premises.
Understanding the EICR Codes
- C1 – Danger Present: Immediate risk of injury or fire. Urgent action is needed, and the circuit or equipment should not be used until repaired.
- C2 – Potentially Dangerous: A fault that could become hazardous. Repairs are required as soon as possible to prevent escalation.
- C3 – Improvement Recommended: The system is safe but could be upgraded to meet modern standards. Not mandatory but advisable.
- FI – Further Investigation: Something appears irregular and requires deeper inspection to confirm safety or compliance.
What Happens After the EICR?
- If your report shows C1 or C2 issues, you must arrange remedial work immediately.
- Once repairs are complete, a new certificate or confirmation of compliance is issued.
- Landlords must provide the EICR to tenants and local authorities upon request.
How Often Should an EICR Be Carried Out?
- Domestic properties — recommended every 10 years (or when buying or selling).
- Rental properties — required every 5 years or with each new tenancy.
- Commercial and industrial premises — typically every 3 to 5 years, depending on use and environment.
Why EICRs Are So Important
- They ensure your property meets UK wiring and safety regulations.
- They reduce the risk of electrical fires, shocks, and costly damage.
- They protect landlords and business owners from legal and insurance issues.
- They provide peace of mind that your electrical systems are safe and properly maintained.
How Ocean City Electrical Can Help
- Our qualified electricians provide comprehensive EICR testing for domestic, commercial, and rental properties across Plymouth and the surrounding areas.
- We clearly explain every part of your report, including what the codes mean and how to fix them.
- We can also handle any required remedial work to bring your installation up to full compliance.
Don’t leave electrical safety to chance. Understanding your EICR helps you make informed decisions that keep your property safe, compliant, and efficient.
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