Common EICR Observations & Typical Coding

Concise reference of common EICR observations and typical coding — aligned to BS 7671 (18th Edition) Amendment 2 (2022). Guidance only; codes depend on risk and context.

Codes C1, C2 and FI result in an unsatisfactory outcome. A report with only C3 items is classed as satisfactory.

AFDDs in Higher-Risk Residential Buildings (HRRBs) Explained

For certain premises — including Higher-Risk Residential Buildings (e.g. tall multi-res blocks per current UK definitions of 7 storeys or more, care homes, HMOs etc), AFDDs (Arc Fault Detection Devices) are required by BS 7671 (18th Edition) Amendment 2, 2022 on specified single-phase final circuits (e.g. socket-outlets ≤ 32 A). On EICR inspection, absence of AFDDs where required will typically attract a C2.

Applies to defined higher-risk residential settings Typically: single-phase socket circuits ≤ 32 A Outcome if required but absent: usually C2

Search EICR observations

EICR coding explained

C1 (FAIL) — Danger present. Immediate risk of injury C2 (FAIL) — Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial action C3 — Improvement recommended FI (FAIL) — Further investigation required

These codes are assigned to each observation during an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). Codes C1, C2 and FI constitute an unsatisfactory outcome. A report with only C3 items is classed as satisfactory.

Common observations with typical EICR codes and notes.
Observation	Typical code	Category	Notes / typical rationale
AFDDs missing where required (e.g. HRRBs)	C2	AFDD	BS 7671 Amd. 2 requires AFDDs on specified single-phase final circuits (≤32 A socket-outlets) in certain premises (HRRBs such as HMOs, care homes, student accommodation, buildings over 7 storeys etc.). Absence = potentially dangerous due to arc-fault fire risk.
No RCD protection to socket-outlets likely to supply portable outdoor equipment	C2	RCD/Protection	Risk of electric shock; non-compliance with additional protection requirements.
No RCD to circuits in bathroom/shower zones	C2	RCD/Protection	Additional protection required in special locations; increased shock risk.
Cables concealed < 50 mm in walls without adequate protection (no RCD/segregation/armour)	C2	RCD/Protection	Penetration risk from nails/screws leading to shock/fire.
Main protective bonding to gas and/or water absent/inadequate	C1	Bonding/Earthing	Potential touch-voltage rise on extraneous-conductive-parts.
Earth continuity defective or high Zs preventing ADS within required time	C2	Bonding/Earthing	Automatic disconnection of supply not assured = shock risk.
Thermal damage, scorching, signs of overheating in CU or accessories	C2	Consumer Unit	Indicates poor termination/overload; fire risk.
Combustible consumer unit enclosure in an escape route or beneath wooden staircase	C2	Consumer Unit	Metal enclosure is typically required in such locations.
Combustible consumer unit enclosure NOT in an escape route	C3	Consumer Unit	Improvement recommended; metal enclosure preferred in some locations (apply judgement to era of install).
Ring final circuit continuity broken (no r1/rn loop)	C2	Circuit Integrity	Overload risk on unfused spurs / poor fault paths.
Borrowed neutral or shared neutrals across RCD ways	C2	Circuit Integrity	Nuisance tripping, shock risk and non-compliance.
Reversed polarity at accessories	C2	Circuit Integrity	Shock risk; single-pole switching on neutral may leave live parts energised.
Lack of socket outlets resulting in excessive use of extension leads/adaptors	C2	Circuit Integrity	Overload / fire risk.
Exposed live parts / missing covers on accessories or CU	C1	General Damage	Immediate danger present; make safe on site.
Damaged accessories (cracked sockets, loose terminations)	C2	General Damage	Shock/fire risk from poor contact or ingress.
Missing circuit schedules, identification or safety labels	C3	Labelling/Docs	Improvement recommended; assists safe operation and maintenance.
Insufficient records/test history to verify safety (e.g. PME confirmation, earthing type unclear)	FI	Labelling/Docs	Further investigation required to determine compliance.
Incorrect IP rating / inappropriate equipment in zones	C2	Bathrooms/Locations	Ingress and shock risk in wet locations.
No SPD where risk assessment or client requirement indicates SPD provision	C3	Surge Protection	Often C3 unless omission presents specific safety risk — use judgement (some scenarios may be FI).

Guidance only — codes depend on risk, usage and the exact installation. For AFDD applicability, refer to BS 7671 (18th Edition) Amendment 2 (2022) and current definitions of higher-risk residential buildings and other listed premises. This list is not exhaustive.