Most people understand the idea of the codes on a condition report. Where they get stuck is their own report: a line such as 'no RCD protection for sockets' with a C2 beside it, and no feel for how serious that is compared with the C3 underneath. This guide works through typical examples found in ordinary houses. The inspector's judgement on the day always takes priority, because the same fault can earn a different code depending on where it is and how it is used.
A quick reminder of the four codes
C1 means danger is present and there is a risk of injury right now. C2 means potentially dangerous: not an immediate hazard, but one that could become dangerous if a fault or other event happened. C3 means improvement recommended. FI means further investigation is needed without delay because the inspector could not reach a conclusion. Any C1, C2 or FI makes the report unsatisfactory.
Examples that typically earn a C1
C1 is kept for things that could hurt someone as things stand. An inspector who finds one will usually make it safe before leaving, often by isolating the circuit, and will tell you straight away.
- A broken socket or switch face with live parts that can be touched
- Live conductors exposed where a cover or blanking plate is missing on the board
- Reversed polarity that leaves a lampholder shell live
- Cable damaged so that the copper is visible and reachable
Examples that typically earn a C2
C2 covers faults that are not live and exposed today, but where the protection that should save you in a fault is missing or not working.
- No RCD protection on sockets likely to power equipment used outdoors
- Main protective bonding to gas or water pipes missing
- An earth fault loop reading too high for the protective device to disconnect in time
- Signs of overheating or scorching at terminals
- Circuit protective conductor missing on a lighting circuit feeding metal fittings
Examples that typically earn a C3
C3 items do not make the report unsatisfactory. They are points where the installation falls short of the current standard, but is not considered dangerous. It is common for an older, well kept house to have a handful.
- An older board without surge protection
- Circuit charts at the board missing or out of date
- Sockets fitted a little close to a sink, where there is no immediate risk
- Warning labels, such as the periodic inspection notice, missing
Examples that typically earn an FI
FI is used when something does not add up and the inspector cannot find the reason within the agreed scope. It is not a guess at a fault. It is a note that the job is not finished.
- A test result that suggests a fault, but the cause cannot be traced without lifting floors
- A circuit at the board that cannot be matched to anything in the house
- Insulation readings that fall on one circuit but not the others, with no visible reason
Why the same fault can get different codes
Context changes the risk. A missing RCD on a bedroom lighting circuit is not the same as a missing RCD on the socket by the back door that runs the lawnmower. Likewise, an old wiring colour code is not a fault at all, while the same old cable with perished insulation is. If a code on your report surprises you, ask the inspector to explain the reasoning. A good one will happily do so.
Reading your own report in order
Start with the overall result on the summary page. Then deal with anything coded C1, then C2 and FI, in that order. C3 items can often wait for a convenient moment, such as when a room is being decorated. Remedial work should be quoted separately from the inspection, so you can compare it and choose who carries it out.
Our reports are signed and each observation is written in plain English, so you can see why it earned its code without needing to look anything up.
Common questions
- Does a C3 mean I have to do the work?
- No. A C3 is a recommendation. It does not make the report unsatisfactory, although some items are cheap to put right while other work is going on.
- Can one C2 fail the whole report?
- Yes. Any C1, C2 or FI makes the report unsatisfactory until it is resolved.
- Will the inspector fix a C1 on the spot?
- The inspector should make a C1 safe before leaving, usually by isolating the circuit, and explain what repair is needed.
Got a report you want explained, or need a new EICR? Call for a free quote.
Related guides
- EICR Codes C1, C2, C3 and FI ExplainedFour codes decide whether your report is satisfactory and what you must do next.
- What Happens During an EICRAn EICR is a structured assessment, not a look around — and knowing the routine makes the day easier.
- Landlord Electrical Duties and the Five-Year EICRRented property has a defined inspection cycle and a defined deadline for remedial work.