An Electrical Installation Condition Report, or EICR, records the findings from inspecting and testing an existing fixed electrical installation. For a homeowner, landlord or business, the useful starting point is the complete report and its observations.
Check what the inspection covered
Read the extent and limitations as well as the overall assessment. These describe which parts were included and anything that could not be accessed or tested. Keep the inspection schedules and circuit test results with the report; the front page alone leaves out important information.
When asking us about an existing EICR, send all its pages and tell us whether the property or installation has changed since the inspection.
What do C1, C2, C3 and FI mean?
The code gives the priority of an observation. Read it alongside the written finding and the affected circuit or location.
| Code | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| C1 | A danger exists now. Immediate action is needed to remove the risk; follow the inspector's instructions about making the affected part safe. |
| C2 | A condition could become dangerous. Arrange urgent remedial work and follow any restrictions advised for the affected circuit or equipment. |
| C3 | An improvement is recommended. Discuss the benefit and timing; this code alone does not make the report unsatisfactory. |
| FI | Further investigation is advised. A possible safety concern needs more information before the inspector can reach a conclusion. |
Read FI against the version on your report
Under BS 7671 Amendment 4:2026, C1 and C2 observations make the overall assessment unsatisfactory. C3 and FI are advisory and do not do so by themselves. FI still identifies an unresolved concern: discuss the investigation with the inspector.
Older reports may use different FI wording. Check the BS 7671 version and recipient notes on your own report. The IET explains the 2026 change to further investigation.
If the report is for rented or licensed premises, share any instructions from the council, insurer or managing agent when enquiring. These need to be considered alongside the report.
Does an unsatisfactory report mean a full rewire?
The required work depends on the actual observations and their extent. An unsatisfactory outcome alone does not tell you that every circuit needs replacing. Ask what each finding means, which part is affected and what work is proposed before comparing remedial quotations.
Our EICR and electrical testing service includes discussing findings and separately quoting the work. Where appropriate, see our consumer unit upgrades, fault repairs and rewiring service.
Keep the records after remedial work
Agree which observations the quotation addresses and what testing and documentation will accompany the work. Retain those records with the original EICR, and ask the inspector about any investigation or observations still outstanding.
Send the full report, site postcode and access arrangements if you would like us to discuss a remedial quote. Mention any deadline when you first contact us.
If the report concerns a property you are buying, our homebuyer electrical-checks guide covers the records and access arrangements to discuss with the seller or agent.
EICR, PAT testing and certificates for new work
An EICR assesses the existing fixed installation. PAT testing concerns appliances and is a separate scope. Certificates for new electrical work record that particular installation or alteration; they are different documents from a condition report on the existing installation.
Check the next inspection recommendation
Read the recommended date on your report and check any requirements for the way the premises is used. A business's inspection arrangements need to reflect its installation, environment and condition. HSE's electrical safety guidance explains this approach.
For shops, offices, hospitality premises and workshops, our commercial EICR and fixed wire testing page explains how we plan scope, access and interruptions.
Discuss your report with a local electrician
Caledonia Electrical Highlands Ltd is based in Inverness and arranges inspection and remedial work across the Scottish Highlands. Send your property details or existing report to discuss the next step, or check our service coverage.