EICR codes: C1, C2, C3 and FI
The codes an electrician uses on an EICR: C1 danger present, C2 potentially dangerous, FI further investigation needed, C3 improvement recommended.
In short: Each observation on an EICR carries a code. C1 means danger is present now; C2 means potentially dangerous; FI means further investigation is needed without delay; C3 means improvement is recommended. A report with any C1, C2 or FI is unsatisfactory, and a landlord must act on it.
Safety certificates and the homeRepairs and standards
England. Checked against the law on 5 October 2026. Information, not legal advice.
What each code means for a landlord in England:
| Code | Meaning | What the law asks |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present, risk of injury | Made safe at once, then repaired |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous | Remedial work within 28 days, or sooner if the report says |
| FI | Further investigation required | Investigated within 28 days, or sooner |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | Not required, but worth planning |
After the work, the landlord gets written confirmation from a qualified person and sends it, with the report, to the tenant and the council within 28 days. A satisfactory report has no C1, C2 or FI items.
Read more: The certificates every let needs (gas, electrical, EPC, alarms)
Where this comes from
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A home you let in England needs an EPC rated E or better, unless an exemption is on the PRS Exemptions Register. The planned rise to C from 1 October 2030 is government policy but still needs new law.
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A private let in England needs a gas safety record every year, an electrical report every five years, an EPC rated E or better, and working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. What each one is, how often, and what happens if you let without it.
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Do I need a licence to let my property? HMO, additional and selective licensing
Five or more people from two or more households need a mandatory HMO licence. Your council may also license smaller HMOs, or every let in an area. How to check, and what happens without one.
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How often does a landlord need an EICR?
Every private let in England needs the electrics inspected and tested at least every five years. Copies to the tenant within 28 days, urgent repairs within 28 days, and a council fine of up to £40,000.
Related terms
Glossary
Category 1 hazard
The most serious level of hazard under the HHSRS. When a council finds one in a home, it must take enforcement action.
Glossary
Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
The method councils in England use to assess hazards in homes, such as damp, cold, falls and fire, and decide whether to take action against the landlord.
Glossary
Awaab's Law
Rules setting fixed times for landlords to investigate and fix damp, mould and other serious hazards. In force for social housing; due to be extended to private lets.
Glossary
Decent Homes Standard
A standard a home must meet: free of serious hazards, in reasonable repair, with reasonably modern facilities and warm. Applies to social housing; planned for private lets.
Glossary
Electrical installation condition report (EICR)
A report by a qualified electrician on the safety of a home's fixed wiring. Every private let in England needs one at least every five years.
Glossary
Energy performance certificate (EPC)
A certificate rating a home's energy efficiency from A (best) to G, valid for ten years. Needed before a home is let or sold, and shown in adverts.