Why reports fail
An EICR is unsatisfactory when it records at least one C1, C2 or FI observation. The most common reasons we see across London and the South East are missing RCD protection for sockets, missing or undersized main bonding, damaged accessories, signs of overheating, and old rewireable fuse boards. Our codes guide explains each classification.
Step 1: check the deadline
For rented homes in England, remedial work or further investigation must be completed within 28 days of the inspection, or sooner if the report specifies. A C1 should already have been made safe on the day. Diary the deadline straight away.
Step 2: get the remedials quoted item by item
Ask for a quote that lists each observation and the work needed to clear it. This makes it easy to compare quotes and to see which items are required (C1, C2, FI) and which are optional (C3). You are not obliged to use the company that carried out the inspection, although it is often quicker.
Step 3: have the work done and certified
Remedial work must be carried out by a competent person and certified. Small repairs are recorded on a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate; larger work such as a consumer unit replacement or rewire receives an Electrical Installation Certificate and, where notifiable, Building Regulations compliance through a Part P scheme.
Step 4: send written confirmation
Landlords must provide written confirmation that the work is complete to the tenant and the local authority within 28 days of completion. Keep the original EICR and the remedial certificates together — between them they show a satisfactory installation.
Do I need a whole new EICR?
Usually not. The original EICR plus the remedial certificates are normally enough to show compliance. A new full EICR is only needed if the remedial work was extensive, the inspection could not be completed, or a licensing officer, agent or insurer asks for one.
Upgrade or repair?
If several C2s relate to an old fuse board, replacing it with a modern RCBO board is often cheaper than fixing each issue separately, and it removes the most common failure point at the next inspection. We fit consumer units from £399 including VAT.