Category
8 articles · Referenced to BS 7671 · Free
An EICR is a formal inspection and testing of all the fixed electrical wiring in a property. It checks everything is safe, identifies faults by severity, and gives a pass or fail result. Landlords in England are legally required to have an EICR every 5 years. Homeowners should have one every 10 years.
What an EICR is and what it covers
What C1, C2, C3, and FI codes mean
How much an EICR costs in the UK
Landlord EICR legal requirements
What happens after a failed EICR
How to find a qualified EICR electrician
Safety note: Only NICEIC or NAPIT registered electricians can issue valid EICRs. Be wary of unusually cheap inspections — a thorough EICR takes 3–5 hours for a typical home.
Codes Explained
1 question
What does a C2 on my EICR mean?
C2 means potentially dangerous — the fault could cause harm under certain conditions. It must be fixed within 28 days and the EICR is classed as unsatisfactory until it is.
Read answer →EICR Process
1 question
How long does an EICR take?
A thorough EICR takes 3–6 hours for a standard house. Larger or older properties with more circuits or access difficulties take longer.
Read answer →EICR Results
2 questions
What is the difference between C1, C2, and C3 codes on an EICR?
C1 = immediate danger (fix now), C2 = potentially dangerous (fix urgently), C3 = improvement recommended (not essential but advisable).
Read answer →What happens if my EICR fails?
An EICR doesn't technically "fail" — it receives an Unsatisfactory rating. Any C1 or C2 codes must be remedied before the installation is re-assessed as Satisfactory.
Read answer →