Understanding EICR Reports

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an invaluable roadmap to compliance for your business. Regular testing ensures your installation meets safety standards, like BS7671, and reports on any faults that compromise your fire safety.

If you’re struggling to understand the EICR, think of it as an MOT for your building. Without it, you could put your team's lives at risk.

What is an EICR?

First, let’s look more at the EICR meaning. An EICR is a critical electrical safety test that must be carried out by a qualified electrician. It covers wiring and cables, earthing and bonding, and consumer units, ensuring your installation meets the requirements for continued use.

Multiple faults and fire risks can lurk out of sight in your building. A thorough EICR report gives you peace of mind that your electrical infrastructure is fit for purpose.

How often should an EICR be done?

EICR testing frequency depends on several factors, including the type of electrical equipment, your reliance on it, and the age and type of the building. As a result, different businesses and premises have different testing recommendations:

• Construction sites: Every 3 months
• Petrol stations, launderettes, swimming pools: Every year
• Cinemas: Every 1-3 years
• Commerce, education, retail and hospitality: Every 5 years

Carrying out fixed wire testing and obtaining an EICR certificate isn’t mandatory for commercial property. However, without one, you’ll be in breach of regulations, including:

• Health & Safety At Work Act 1974
• Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
• Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1992

Read more about EICR Testing – everything you need to know.

What are common EICR failure reasons?

Faulty installations and outdated electrical systems are the root cause of most common EICR failures. Other failures include:

• Lack of RCD (residual current device) protection
• Deteriorated or exposed wiring
• Overloaded circuits
• Inadequate earthing
• Outdated fuse boxes
• Improper or DIY installation

Learn more about common compliance pitfalls and how to avoid them.

How do you read an EICR report?

At first glance, an EICR report can seem overwhelming. What’s more, misinterpretation of your report could lead to fines, invalidated insurance and public liability claims.

Understanding your EICR report at a glance

• Check the summary: the results will be ‘satisfactory’ (pass) or ‘unsatisfactory’ (fail).
• Look for observations and classification codes: check for C1, C2, C3 or F1 codes that require prompt action.
• Read the recommendations: Information on what work is required, and when.
• Check the next inspection date: make a note and keep a digitised copy in your records.

Understanding the details

There are several key sections of your EICR report. These include the report's purpose and the extent and limitations of the inspection, including what was and wasn’t tested (e.g., wiring under floorboards).

EICR testing aims to ensure the safety of building users and to identify any non-compliant issues that may pose a fire risk. The report should identify any dangerous damage or defects, and confirm whether the installation is safe for continuous use. Finally, the schedule of test results lists every circuit tested and the protective device covering it.

What are the common codes for electrical faults?

The key to understanding your EICR report is the codes used for electrical faults. These are listed in the Observations section of your report.

C1 (Danger present): This code is used when there’s an immediate danger, such as exposed live wires. Remedial action is required immediately to prevent the threat of injury.

C2 (Potentially dangerous): This code indicates faults that require urgent action where the installation could become hazardous. For instance, a lack of RCDs is a C2 fault.

C3 (Improvement recommended): A C3 code is issued where the installation is not dangerous but requires upgrading for safety or compliance. For instance, a consumer unit is made of plastic, not metal.

F1: (Further investigation): The inspector found an issue that needed further checks or was unable to access an area for testing.

Please note: C1, C2, and F1 codes will all result in an unsatisfactory report.

What if I get an “unsatisfactory” report?

If your EICR report is unsatisfactory, you must take the following steps to ensure compliance and safety.

1. Review your codes: C1 codes should be dealt with immediately by a qualified electrician. C2 and C3 codes should be addressed promptly to ensure safety.
2. Complete work within 28 days: C1 repairs require immediate attention. C2 repairs should be completed within 28 days.
3. Provide written confirmation: Landlords must provide written confirmation of all remedial works within 28 days. Copies should be sent to the council and your tenants.
4. Use a qualified electrician: To obtain an EICR certificate, work must be carried out by a competent, registered electrician.
5. Don’t ignore C3 faults: Although not an immediate danger, failure to deal with C3 faults by the time of your next EICR report could be viewed as negligent.

How phs Compliance can help

An EICR certificate is about more than compliance. It ensures peace of mind for your business. At phs Compliance, we’re the nationwide leaders in EICR Inspections and Certification (Fixed Wire Testing), providing consistently high-quality services from our team of EICR specialists. Contact us today to book your EICR report.