A Code 1 (C1) on an EICR means danger is present and the electrical installation poses an immediate risk of injury or death. A Code 2 (C2) means the installation is potentially dangerous and remedial work is required urgently. Both codes result in an unsatisfactory EICR. A C1 requires the circuit or installation to be made safe immediately, often before the electrician leaves site. A C2 must be rectified as soon as possible. Neither should be ignored. If you have received an EICR with a C1 or C2, contact a Part P registered electrician without delay.
🏠Homeowner view
If you have just received an Electrical Installation Condition Report and it contains a Code 1 or Code 2, it is understandable to feel worried. Here is what each one actually means in plain English, and what you should do next.
What is a Code 1 (C1)?
A Code 1 means danger is present right now. There is an immediate risk of electric shock, fire, or death from the current state of the wiring or electrical equipment. This is the most serious classification on an EICR. Common examples include exposed live conductors that can be touched, a complete absence of earthing on a circuit, or a damaged consumer unit with live parts accessible to fingers.
When a C1 is found, the electrician carrying out the inspection has a professional and legal obligation to make that specific hazard safe before leaving. In practice this might mean isolating the affected circuit, taping off exposed conductors, or disconnecting a piece of equipment entirely. The installation will be recorded as unsatisfactory on the report.
What is a Code 2 (C2)?
A Code 2 means the installation is potentially dangerous. It is not causing immediate harm right now, but under certain conditions it could lead to electric shock or fire. This still results in an unsatisfactory EICR. Examples include missing circuit protection, deteriorated insulation that has not yet fully failed, absence of RCD protection on socket circuits, or an incorrectly rated fuse.
A C2 does not mean you need to leave your home, but it does mean remedial electrical work is needed urgently. You should not simply ignore it and hope for the best.
What should you do?
1. Do not attempt to repair electrical faults yourself unless you are qualified.
2. Contact a Part P registered electrician as soon as possible.
3. If you received the EICR as part of a rental property, your landlord is legally obliged under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 to have C1 and C2 faults remedied within 28 days, or sooner if specified.
4. Ask your electrician for a minor works certificate or full remedial report once the work is completed.
5. Keep all paperwork safely, as you may need it for insurance or property sale purposes.