What to Do After Failing an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)
Introduction
If you’ve recently received an unsatisfactory EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report), don’t panic. It’s more common than you think—especially in older properties. However, ignoring it can be dangerous and illegal, particularly if you’re a landlord in the UK.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
What a failed EICR means
The legal obligations (especially under the 2020 UK regulations)
Steps you need to take
Estimated repair costs
How Norm Electrical Engineering can help
1. What Is an EICR and Why Is It Important?
An EICR is a formal inspection of your property’s electrical system to:
Identify defects, deterioration, or non-compliance with current regulations
Ensure installations are safe for continued use
Prevent electrical fires and shocks
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, all rental properties must have a satisfactory EICR at least every 5 years.
👉 Learn more: Electrical safety for landlords
2. What Does It Mean to “Fail” an EICR?
If your EICR is marked “unsatisfactory,” it means the electrician found Code C1, C2, or FI issues. Here’s a breakdown:
| Code | Meaning | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present | Immediate action needed |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous | Urgent remedial work |
| C3 | Improvement recommended (not a fail) | Not mandatory but advised |
| FI | Further investigation required | Must be completed before retesting |
Example: A faulty consumer unit may be marked C2, while exposed live wires are C1.
3. Do I Legally Have to Fix a Failed EICR?
Yes—especially if you’re a landlord.
For Landlords (England):
Legal obligation to carry out remedial or investigative work within 28 days (or shorter if specified in the report).
Must provide written confirmation of repairs to both the tenant and local authority.
Failure to comply can result in fines up to £30,000.
👉 Official UK government guide
4. Immediate Steps After a Failed EICR
Step 1: Review the Report
Read through the report carefully. Pay attention to:
The codes (C1, C2, FI)
The affected circuits, sockets, wiring, or appliances
Any safety hazards or urgent mentions
Step 2: Prioritise C1 Issues
If C1 issues are found, disconnect and stop using the affected area. For example:
Exposed wiring? Turn off power to that circuit.
Faulty fuse board? Avoid turning it on.
Step 3: Hire a Qualified Electrician
Only a competent and qualified electrician can carry out the necessary remedial work and issue confirmation.
👉 Book trusted NICEIC-approved electricians at www.normelectric.co.uk
Step 4: Get the Remedial Work Done
Your electrician should:
Fix C1 and C2 issues
Investigate any FI codes
Provide a written confirmation of the completed work
Step 5: Retest and Obtain a Satisfactory EICR
After repairs, a partial or full retest will be performed. If all issues are resolved, you’ll receive a satisfactory EICR, valid for 5 years.
5. Common Reasons for Failing an EICR
| Issue | Typical Code | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Missing bonding on gas/water pipes | C2 | Install proper bonding |
| Old-style fusebox with no RCD | C2 | Replace consumer unit |
| Loose or exposed wires | C1 | Rewire or repair with junction boxes |
| Damaged sockets/switches | C2 | Replace faulty outlets |
| Lighting circuits with no earth | FI | Investigate and rewire as needed |
6. Costs Involved After a Failed EICR
| Remedial Work | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New consumer unit (fuse board) | £400 – £750 |
| Rewiring (per room) | £300 – £600 |
| Bonding upgrades | £100 – £250 |
| Socket or light replacement | £40 – £100 per unit |
| Full or partial EICR retest | £80 – £150 |
Note: Prices may vary based on location and property type. Request a free quote from Norm Electrical Engineering.
7. How Norm Electrical Engineering Can Help
We provide:
✅ Free initial consultation
✅ Same-day remedial repairs for urgent C1/C2 issues
✅ Fully certified NICEIC electricians
✅ EICR retesting and documentation for legal compliance
✅ Emergency callouts in London & surrounding areas
📞 Call us at 0208 245 8400 or 07724 308998
🌐 www.normelectric.co.uk
8. What Happens If I Ignore a Failed EICR?
Legal fines of up to £30,000 (landlords)
Invalid insurance due to non-compliance
Increased fire or electric shock risk
Difficulty selling or renting your property
Local council enforcement orders
9. Landlord-Specific FAQs
Q: Can I still let the property with an unsatisfactory EICR?
A: Only if all C1 and C2 issues are corrected within 28 days and confirmation is issued.
Q: Do I need to provide a copy to tenants?
A: Yes, within 28 days of inspection.
Q: What if my tenant refuses access?
A: Keep written evidence of attempts. You may not be penalised if access was reasonably denied.
10. Conclusion: Safety First, Always
A failed EICR isn’t the end of the world—but ignoring it can be disastrous. It’s both a legal and moral responsibility to fix hazardous installations.
Act quickly. Hire a trusted electrician. Stay compliant. Most importantly, keep yourself and others safe.
Need Help Now?
📞 Call Norm Electrical Engineering on 0208 245 8400 or 07724 308998
🌐 Visit www.normelectric.co.uk to schedule your repair or retest today.
Norm Electrical Engineering
No valid EICR? You could be fined £30,000. Protect your rental today for less than £99.
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