Understanding the Role of Plastic Consumer Units in an EICR
When it comes to electrical inspections, there are several myths and misunderstandings that often worry homeowners, especially regarding whether a plastic consumer unit could cause a property to fail an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). One of the most common questions I receive is whether having a plastic consumer unit could be a reason for failure. Let’s clear this up once and for all.
Will a Plastic Consumer Unit Fail an EICR?
I’ve heard stories of electricians failing properties for having a plastic consumer unit, even when the rest of the electrical system is in good condition. However, the truth is that, as of now, having a plastic consumer unit does not automatically mean an EICR failure.
That said, it’s important to understand that the safety of your consumer unit depends on its condition, not just the material it’s made from. While plastic consumer units were once more common, regulations around the materials used for consumer units have changed, particularly with the introduction of the BS 7671:2018 standards. These updates only apply to new installations, meaning if your plastic consumer unit was installed before 2016, it’s not automatically a fail—unless it’s damaged or faulty.
In some cases, having a plastic consumer unit may result in an advisory on your EICR. This is because a metal housing is considered safer, but it’s not yet a fail under current standards if the plastic unit is in good working order.
Are UK Landlords Required to Have a Metal Consumer Unit?
Landlords have different legal obligations compared to homeowners. In the UK, landlords are required to ensure that their properties have a valid, up-to-date EICR, which is not a requirement for private homeowners unless specifically requested by insurers or mortgage providers.
If an EICR reveals code one issues (major safety concerns), landlords must address these within 28 days, or face potential fines. But here’s the good news: the law doesn’t yet require landlords to upgrade to a metal consumer unit. While it’s advisable to do so for safety reasons, the material of the consumer unit is not a legal issue unless it’s faulty or no longer complies with current regulations.
What’s the Problem with a Plastic Consumer Unit?
Plastic has long been a popular material for consumer units due to its ease of use and cost-effectiveness. However, the problem with plastic units is that they are combustible, and when a fire starts in a consumer unit, the plastic can easily catch fire and release toxic fumes. These fumes can pose significant health risks, even before a full fire develops. Additionally, plastic units can contribute to the spread of fire, especially since consumer units are often located along escape routes in the home.
Tests carried out by the London Fire Brigade have shown that metal consumer units are much more effective at containing fires within the unit itself, preventing the spread to other areas of the building.
Do You Own a Commercial Property?
For commercial property owners, the safety of electrical installations is an even more pressing concern. Commercial properties often have complex electrical systems with higher usage demands, meaning stricter regulations are in place. Regular EICRs are essential to prevent electrical hazards that could cause major disruptions to business operations.
If you’re a business owner looking to ensure your electrical systems are safe and compliant, don’t hesitate to contact a trusted professional to carry out an EICR for your commercial property.
Should I Upgrade My Plastic Consumer Unit?
For homeowners, especially landlords, the question remains: should you upgrade your plastic consumer unit? The decision depends on the age of your consumer unit and whether it meets current standards.
Plastic consumer units installed before 2016 do not comply with the latest regulations (BS 7671:2018). Although it’s not a legal requirement to upgrade unless there’s an EICR issue, doing so can enhance safety and potentially prevent future problems. If you’ve had an EICR and any faults were identified with your consumer unit, upgrading is a smart move to avoid the risk of electrical fires.
While the upfront cost of replacing your consumer unit may seem daunting, it’s worth considering the potential consequences of a fire. The financial and emotional toll of fire damage far outweighs the cost of replacing a plastic consumer unit with a metal one, which typically costs just a few hundred pounds.
Conclusion
In summary, a plastic consumer unit will not automatically fail an EICR as long as it’s in good condition and was installed before the 2016 regulation changes. However, it’s important to weigh the potential risks of continuing to use plastic and consider upgrading to a metal consumer unit, especially for landlords and property owners concerned with long-term safety. If you’re unsure whether your consumer unit is compliant or need to schedule an EICR, reach out to a qualified electrician such as LA Electrical & Solar for advice and peace of mind.
