A common question among homeowners is whether a plastic consumer unit can cause an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to fail. While plastic consumer units are no longer the standard, they can still be found in older homes. Understanding the regulations and safety considerations surrounding these units is crucial.
EICR Overview
An EICR is a comprehensive assessment of your electrical installation. It’s designed to identify any potential hazards or safety concerns and ensure compliance with current regulations.
Plastic Consumer Units and Regulations
While plastic consumer units are no longer the preferred choice for new installations, they are still considered safe if they meet certain criteria:
- Age: Units installed before 2016 are generally exempt from the new regulations requiring metal enclosures.
- Condition: The unit must be in good working order, free from damage or signs of overheating.
- Compliance: It must comply with the relevant regulations for its age and installation date.
EICR Outcomes
During an EICR, an electrician will assess your consumer unit and assign it one of three codes:
- C1: This indicates an immediate danger that requires immediate action.
- C2: This indicates a potential danger that requires repairs or upgrades.
- C3: This indicates a recommendation for improvement, but the unit is not considered unsafe.
A plastic consumer unit in good condition is likely to receive a C3 rating, meaning it’s not immediately dangerous but an upgrade is recommended for safety and compliance.
Upgrading to a Metal Consumer Unit
While not mandatory, upgrading to a metal consumer unit offers several advantages:
- Enhanced Safety: Metal enclosures are more fire-resistant and durable, reducing the risk of electrical fires and damage.
- Compliance: Upgrading ensures compliance with current regulations and future-proofs your electrical system.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your consumer unit meets modern safety standards provides greater peace of mind.
Landlords and EICRs
Landlords have additional legal obligations regarding EICRs. They are required to:
- Obtain a valid EICR for all rental properties.
- Address any C2 or C3 findings within 28 days.
- Provide tenants with a copy of the EICR report.
While landlords are not currently required to upgrade plastic consumer units, it’s generally considered good practice to do so for safety and tenant satisfaction.
In summary, a plastic consumer unit alone won’t automatically fail an EICR if it’s in good condition and complies with relevant regulations. However, upgrading to a metal unit offers enhanced safety, compliance, and peace of mind. If you have any concerns about your consumer unit or need an EICR, it’s best to get in contact with us.
