Receiving an Electrical Installation Condition Report with C1 or C2 observations is understandably concerning. But understanding exactly what these codes mean, what your obligations are, and how quickly you need to act will help you respond calmly, effectively, and in full compliance with your legal duties.
A C1 observation means danger is present. This classification indicates an immediate risk of electric shock or fire, and the inspector is expected to make the installation safe before leaving — either by isolating the affected circuit or, in the most serious cases, isolating the entire supply. Common C1 faults include exposed live conductors, cables with completely degraded insulation, missing protective earth connections on accessible metalwork, and switchgear with doors removed or damaged. If your EICR contains a C1 observation, remedial work is not optional — it must be addressed immediately.
A C2 observation means potentially dangerous. The installation does not meet current BS 7671 requirements and presents a risk that, while not causing immediate danger in normal circumstances, could lead to injury if conditions change. Common C2 faults include inadequate earthing and bonding, circuits lacking required RCD protection, undersized or incorrectly rated protective devices, and cables with partial insulation damage. For residential landlords, the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations 2020 require C2 faults to be rectified within 28 days of the EICR being issued. For commercial landlords and business owners, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require prompt action — in practice, most insurers expect C2 items to be addressed within 28 days as well.
A C3 observation is an advisory recommendation. The installation is not immediately dangerous and does not technically require remedial action, but bringing it up to current standards would improve safety and reduce risk. Common C3 observations include the absence of surge protection devices, older but still functional consumer units that could be upgraded, and minor labelling deficiencies. C3 items are not mandatory to address, but many landlords and businesses choose to act on them when carrying out other electrical work.
When you receive an EICR with C1 or C2 faults, your first call should be to a NICEIC-registered electrician who can assess the severity and provide a detailed remedial quotation. At DCC Electrics, we provide itemised quotations for every observation within 24 hours of issuing an EICR. Our quotations specify exactly what needs to be done, which circuit or component is affected, and the cost of the remedial work — giving you clear information to make decisions quickly.
For commercial properties, the practical implications of C1 and C2 faults extend beyond legal compliance. Many commercial insurance policies contain conditions that require the policyholder to maintain the electrical installation in a safe condition. An unaddressed C1 or C2 fault could invalidate your insurance cover for incidents related to the electrical installation. Some insurers go further, requiring a current satisfactory EICR as a condition of policy renewal. Addressing EICR faults promptly is therefore not just a legal obligation — it is essential for protecting your insurance position.
At DCC Electrics, our remedial team is experienced in addressing every type of EICR fault across Kent and the South East. From replacing a failed RCD in a Gravesend warehouse to upgrading a Dartford restaurant's earthing system and rewiring an outdated consumer unit in a Maidstone retail unit, we complete remedial work efficiently, with minimum disruption to your business, and provide a completion certificate confirming that the identified faults have been resolved. If your EICR has raised concerns, do not wait — contact us today for a free remedial quotation.