What is this?
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a formal inspection of your property's electrical installation by a qualified electrician. When an EICR is graded as 'Unsatisfactory', it means the inspector found one or more defects that pose a danger or potential danger. Defects are coded C1 (danger present — immediate action required), C2 (potentially dangerous — urgent remedial action required), or C3 (improvement recommended but not mandatory). A C1 or C2 makes the report unsatisfactory.
Common causes
- Lack of RCD protection on circuits that now require it under current regulations
- Deteriorated wiring insulation (common in properties over 25 years old)
- Missing or inadequate earthing and bonding
- Outdated consumer unit without modern protective devices
- Unauthorized or non-compliant DIY electrical work
Is it dangerous?
A failed EICR means your installation has defects that could cause electric shock or fire. C1 defects are an immediate danger and should be addressed straight away. C2 defects are potentially dangerous and should be remedied urgently. While C3 observations are recommendations rather than requirements, they highlight areas where the installation falls short of current standards.
Can I fix it myself?
You cannot fix EICR defects yourself. The work must be carried out by a qualified electrician, and many of the common defects (consumer unit replacement, earthing upgrades, new circuits) are notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations. After the remedial work is completed, the electrician should re-test the affected circuits and update the EICR.
When to call an electrician
You should already have an electrician engaged, as the EICR was carried out by one. If the electrician who did the inspection does not do remedial work, or you want a second opinion, contact another qualified electrician. Provide them with a copy of the EICR so they can see exactly what defects were found and the coding.
What will an electrician do?
Review the EICR and explain all defects and their coding in plain language
Provide a quote for remedial work to address all C1 and C2 defects
Carry out the remedial work, which may include upgrading the consumer unit, adding RCD protection, improving earthing and bonding, and replacing damaged wiring
Re-test all circuits affected by the remedial work
Issue an updated EICR or Electrical Installation Certificate confirming the work is satisfactory
Notify Building Control if the work is notifiable under Part P
Typical cost
£200 – £1500
Costs vary widely depending on the defects. Adding RCD protection: £150–£300. Consumer unit replacement: £350–£600. Earthing upgrades: £200–£400. Full rewire if the wiring is life-expired: £3,000–£6,000.
