What Do EICR Codes C1, C2, C3, F1 Mean for Electrical Safety?

An EICR is a detailed investigation determining whether your electrical system is in good condition and working safely. Professional electricians normally assign several EICR codes during the inspection and the relevant issues in the report. The electrician used the EICR codes C1, C2, C3, and F1 to classify these problems for easy understanding.

The C1 Code signals the presence of danger and indicates urgent action to prevent damage and further harm. The C2 Code indicates possible danger issues that can deteriorate if not corrected. The C3 Code indicates non-critical improvements, advising on upgrades for safety to achieve current safety standards. F1 Code indicates further study, pointing out areas of risks that will require detailed investigation to determine their seriousness.

EICR codes directly influence a property’s value and marketability. Properties with unresolved C1 or C2 issues face decreased appeal due to safety risks, making them less attractive to buyers or tenants. Minor concerns like C3 or unexplored F1 findings can deter potential interest, as they suggest additional expenses. 

What Are EICR Codes?

EICR codes are the classifications in an EICR that indicate electrical installations’ condition or safety level in a home, building, or apartment. These codes classify the severity of identified issues, helping property owners and occupants understand the risks and prioritise necessary repairs. Qualified electricians conduct the EICR to ensure compliance with UK safety standards, specifically BS 7671 Wiring Regulations. The EICR uses 4 codes, C1, C2, C3, and FI, to classify issues based on their urgency and the actions needed.

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require landlords to arrange EICRs every 5 years or according to the report. Landlords must give a copy of the report to tenants, prospective tenants, or local authorities within 28 days of the inspection. 

Homeowners must also fix any issues classified as C1 (danger present) or C2 (potential danger) within 28 days or sooner if the report specifies it. For Houses in Multiple Occupations (HMOs), the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupations (England) Regulations 2006 directs landlords to inspect and test electrical systems every 5 years or as per report.

No landlord can be compliant without producing an EICR as part of a property regulatory requirement and in the interest of tenants. It is unsafe to have properties without EICR; in some cases, landlords can be exposed to legal actions, loss of money, and a bad reputation. A valid EICR fulfils legal requirements, builds tenant trust, and safeguards the property’s market value.

The 4 types of EICR codes are given below.

1. C1 Code
2. C2 Code
3. C3 Code
4. F1 Code

C1 Code ( Immediate Danger )

Code C1 means “Danger Present.” Code C1 indicates an issue in the electrical installation that poses an immediate safety risk. This code identifies issues that make the system unsafe for use in its current state. 

The examples of C1 faults are described below.

1. Exposed live conductors.
2. Overheating sockets or switches.
3. Bare or damaged wires.
4. Water ingress into electrical equipment.

Identifying a C1 code demands immediate attention to eliminate the risk. It is important to turn off faulty parts of the installation immediately to prevent electrical hazards or fire risks. The time required varies due to factors like the nature of the fault, accessibility of the affected components, and the scope of the repairs needed. Simple repairs, such as replacing a broken socket, typically take 1 to 2 hours. More complex issues, like rewiring damaged circuits, may take several hours or even up to a full day.

C2 Code: (Potentially Dangerous)

A Code C2 in an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a fault or issue presenting a potential danger. It means that while the problem is not immediately hazardous, it could lead to a dangerous situation if not addressed promptly.

The examples of C2 faults are described below.

1. Missing or damaged earthing or bonding.
2. Faulty safety devices like RCDs that fail to trip.
3. Overloaded circuits or incorrect fuse ratings.
4. Deteriorated wiring insulation.

When a C2 code is identified, arranging for a certified electrician to address the issue immediately is important. While the system may remain in temporary use, delaying repairs could increase the risk of electric shocks, fire, or system failures. Tasks like replacing a faulty RCD or correcting a circuit rating can take 1–2 hours. Upgrading earthing systems or rewiring sections of the property may take several hours or even days.

C3 Code: (Improvement recommended)

A C3 code signifies that improvement is recommended in an electrical installation condition report (EICR). Code C3 highlights areas where the electrical system could be improved to meet current regulations. 

The examples of C3 faults are described below.

1. There is no RCD protection for certain sockets.
2. Outdated wiring colours.
3. Minor wear on electrical accessories.

Consulting with a qualified electrician to schedule these improvements can prevent future complications and ensure the system remains up to date. Issues like installing RCD protection or updating labelling may take a few hours. Replacing outdated wiring or electrical panels could take several days.

F1 Code: (Further investigation required)

The F1 code on an EICR indicates that the installation requires further investigation.  F1 code highlights areas where the inspector suspects underlying problems that could not be conclusively evaluated during the standard assessment. 

The examples of F1 faults are described below.

1. Unexplained circuit breaker tripping.
2. Overheating or burn marks on components.
3. Inaccessible or concealed wiring.
4. Test reading discrepancies indicating faults.

Upon receiving an F1 code, arranging for a qualified electrician to conduct the recommended further investigations promptly is crucial. The investigation process involves Inspecting concealed wiring, diagnosing faults and assessing potential issues. Addressing F1 codes without delay is essential to identifying hidden dangers and implementing necessary corrective measures to maintain electrical safety. Accessing and inspecting a specific component may take a few hours. Extensive testing or uncovering concealed wiring could take several days.

What is the Effect of the EICR Codes on Your Property Value?

Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) codes play a significant role in influencing the value of your property. These codes C1, C2, C3, and F1 highlight safety issues and areas of improvement within a property’s electrical system. Unresolved issues identified in an EICR can impact both buyer confidence and market appeal.

• Properties with unresolved C1 codes face immediate safety risks, such as fire hazards or electric shocks. These urgent issues significantly reduce property value since buyers are unlikely to invest in a home with serious safety concerns. 
• While less urgent, C2 codes still highlight faults that could become hazardous over time. These issues often lower a property’s value by increasing repair costs for potential buyers or tenants. 
• C3 codes suggest non-critical upgrades to enhance safety. Although they don’t drastically affect value, these recommendations may influence buyer negotiations, as they might factor in the cost of suggested improvements. 
• Finally, FI codes create uncertainty, deterring buyers who may worry about hidden costs or risks. Unresolved FI codes reduce buyer confidence and negatively impact the property’s overall market value.

A satisfactory EICR report increases a property’s value by ensuring that the electrical systems are up to the standards. Addressing the C1 and C2 faults before listing the property facilitates the sale of the premises to buyers and tenants. Properties with straightforward compliance histories are considered safer, better maintained, and more valuable on the market.

Why do homebuyers or tenants always ask for an EICR code?

Homebuyers or tenants always ask for an EICR code to ensure the property is electrically safe and meets current safety standards. Tenants want to identify any risks, such as the presence of frayed cables or undersized fit-outs, which may give rise to the possibility of fire, electric shock or other risks. For homebuyers, an EICR helps them make an informed decision by providing assurance about the property’s condition and avoiding unexpected repair costs. Tenants rely on it to confirm that landlords have fulfilled their legal obligation to provide a safe living environment. 

Should landlords keep the EICR always updated?

Yes, landlords are legally required to maintain an up-to-date Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) for their rental properties. Electrical Safety Standards 2020 mandates that landlords inspect their property for at least 5 years or as per a report description by a qualified person. Landlords should provide tenants with the EICR before moving in for new or existing tenancies. This responsibility ensures tenants are informed about electrical safety in their homes.

What to Do if a Property Has an Unsatisfactory EICR?

Homeowners should take immediate actions like isolating dangerous circuits, repairing faulty components, and addressing missing earthing or bonding to resolve issues when a property has an unsatisfactory EICR. A tenant moving to a property with failed EICR should demand proof that the landlord has completed remedial work to ensure the electrical system is safe. Landlords have a legal obligation to rectify problems with C1 types being dealt with as a first priority and the entire repair work completed within a maximum span of 28 days or as mentioned in the report. Ignoring these issues can lead to tenant safety risks and substantial fines of up to £30,000 for the landlord. Ensuring all necessary repairs are done before moving in protects tenants from electrical hazards like shocks or fires.

What is the Cost to Renew or Obtain a New EICR?

The cost to renew or obtain an EICR code is typically between £100 and £300. However, EICR cost depends on certain factors, such as the size of the property and the location. Larger or more intricate properties are likely to have a higher time span and, hence, cost more. Property owners should seek quotes from certified electricians for accurate reporting and safety arrangements.