Getting an unsatisfactory EICR result isn’t something to panic about, but it does mean action is needed. Here’s what the codes mean and what you actually have to do next.
What the codes mean
An EICR report categorises any issues it finds using a coding system. The two codes that make a report unsatisfactory are C1 and C2.
C1 (Danger present) means there’s an immediate safety risk — something that could cause electric shock or fire right now. This needs to be dealt with urgently, and in practice a responsible electrician will often make it safe on the day before leaving.
C2 (Potentially dangerous) means the installation isn’t safe but doesn’t present an immediate emergency. The standard timeframe for remedial work is 28 days.
C3 (Improvement recommended) doesn’t make the report unsatisfactory. It’s a suggestion for improvement — worth considering, but not urgent and not a fail.
FI (Further investigation required) means something needs a closer look before it can be fully assessed. The report will be unsatisfactory until that investigation is complete.
What happens after an unsatisfactory result
You’ll need to get the remedial work carried out by a qualified electrician. Once the work is done, you’ll receive written confirmation that the issues have been resolved. You don’t need a full new EICR — the confirmation document updates the status to satisfactory.
If you’re a landlord, you’re required by law to fix C1 and C2 faults within 28 days and provide written evidence of the completed work to your tenants and the local authority within that same window.
Common things that come up
Missing or inadequate RCD protection, ageing wiring, deteriorated connections, and outdated consumer units are among the most frequent findings. None of these are unusual in older properties, and most can be resolved without major disruption.
If your EICR has come back unsatisfactory, or you need one done, get in touch and we’ll talk you through the next steps.
