If you’ve had an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) carried out, the report will be covered in codes — C1, C2, C3 and FI. These tell you how serious each issue is and whether your certificate passes or fails. Here’s what each one means in plain English.
C1 — Danger present
A C1 means there is an immediate danger and a risk of injury — something live and exposed, for example. Your electrician will usually make it safe on the spot. Any C1 makes the overall report unsatisfactory.
C2 — Potentially dangerous
A C2 isn’t dangerous right now but could become so — a missing earth, a damaged cable, or no RCD protection where one is needed. C2 items must be fixed, and any C2 also makes the report unsatisfactory. Landlords must carry out the remedial work within 28 days.
C3 — Improvement recommended
A C3 is advisory. It’s not dangerous and doesn’t need fixing to pass, but bringing it up to current standards would improve safety. A report can be satisfactory even with C3 items — for example an older consumer unit that still works safely.
FI — Further investigation required
FI means the inspector found something that needs more investigation. Like C1 and C2, an FI code results in an unsatisfactory report until it’s resolved.
Satisfactory vs unsatisfactory
In short: C3 codes are fine (satisfactory); C1, C2 or FI codes mean unsatisfactory, and the issues must be put right. For rented homes, a landlord must have a satisfactory EICR and provide it to tenants.
What if my EICR is unsatisfactory?
Don’t panic — it’s common in older London properties. We explain each code, quote for the remedial work, and once it’s done, issue a satisfactory certificate. Minor items can often be fixed on the same visit. Read more about EICR certificates or check how much an EICR costs.
Common questions
No. C3 is an advisory ‘improvement recommended’ code. A report can still be satisfactory with C3 items — only C1, C2 and FI codes make it unsatisfactory.
If you’re a landlord, you must carry out remedial work for C1, C2 or FI codes within 28 days of the report (or sooner if specified) and confirm this in writing to your tenant.
Yes — we quote for any remedial work at the time of inspection, often fix minor issues on the same visit, and then issue your satisfactory certificate.
Need an EICR or remedial work?
EICR certificates from £165 + VAT — clear codes explained, no jargon, no upselling.
Call 020 7473 7807