How to Read an EICR Certificate: A Plain English Guide
An Electrical Installation Condition Report can look overwhelming. This guide explains every section — observation codes, circuit details and what you actually need to do next.
What an EICR Contains
An EICR is a multi-page document produced after an electrical installation inspection. It contains:
- Property and client details
- Details of the installation inspected (consumer unit type, age, earthing arrangement)
- Schedule of circuit details — each circuit in the property listed with test results
- Observations — any findings that deviate from the standard
- An overall verdict: Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory
Understanding the Observation Codes
Every observation is given a code indicating its severity:
- C1 — Danger present: Risk of injury. Must be made safe immediately. A C1 finding makes the EICR unsatisfactory and the electrician should either make the issue safe on the day or strongly advise the client not to occupy the property until it is fixed.
- C2 — Potentially dangerous: Not immediately dangerous but could become so. Must be remedied within 28 days. Makes the EICR unsatisfactory.
- C3 — Improvement recommended: Not dangerous but below current standards. Does not make the EICR unsatisfactory but should be addressed when possible.
- FI — Further investigation required: The inspector could not fully assess this item. Further work is needed before the full condition can be determined.
The Overall Verdict
The last page (or first page, depending on the format) gives an overall verdict:
- Satisfactory: the installation is in a satisfactory condition for continued use. There may still be C3 observations — these are recommendations, not requirements.
- Unsatisfactory: there are C1, C2 or FI observations that require action.
The Circuit Schedule
The schedule of circuits lists every circuit in the property with test results — earth loop impedance, insulation resistance, RCD test times. These are technical measurements that the inspector has already evaluated. As a landlord you do not need to interpret these numbers — they inform the observations.
What You Need to Do
If the verdict is Satisfactory: provide a copy to your tenant(s) and keep a copy. Rebook before the next inspection is due (date stated on the certificate, maximum 5 years).
If the verdict is Unsatisfactory: book remedial work within 28 days (or the shorter deadline in the report). Once work is done, obtain a written confirmation letter from the electrician. Provide both the EICR and confirmation to the tenant.
Frequently asked questions
If my EICR only has C3 findings is it satisfactory?
Yes — C3 observations alone result in a Satisfactory overall verdict. C3 findings are recommendations, not failures. The EICR is valid and you can proceed as normal, though you should plan to address C3 items when practicable.
How long is an EICR valid for?
Up to 5 years for a rental property, or the shorter period specified in the report. The validity period is stated on the certificate itself.
Do I need to get a new EICR after remedial work?
Not necessarily a full new EICR — a written confirmation or minor works certificate from the electrician confirming the remedial work is complete is sufficient. A full new EICR is not required unless the electrician specifies it.
Can I show the EICR to the tenant in electronic form?
Yes — there is no requirement for a paper copy. Email delivery is accepted provided you can demonstrate the tenant received it.