ELECTRICAL ADVICE • SOUTH LONDON • NAPIT APPROVED
When a low-cost electrical report leads to unnecessary expense
An EICR should identify genuine electrical safety issues, not create confusion or unjustified remedial costs. Here is an example from our work in South London and what property owners should check.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a professional assessment of the condition of an electrical installation. A poorly evidenced observation can make an otherwise serviceable installation appear unsafe — just as inadequate testing can miss a real hazard.
A REAL CUSTOMER ENQUIRY
A report that raised questions
A property owner living abroad contacted NOD Electrical Services after receiving an EICR and an accompanying estimate for remedial work. The property was approximately ten years old, yet a replacement consumer unit had been proposed and a circuit had been given an FI (Further Investigation) observation.
After reviewing the report and carrying out selected works, we returned to investigate and retest the circuit. Our tests did not substantiate the original FI concern. We documented the work and findings for the customer, who was able to challenge the earlier recommendations.
What this illustrates: the observation, test results and recommended action should be capable of being explained and evidenced. A later satisfactory test does not, by itself, prove deliberate misconduct or that the earlier observation was unjustified at the time.
Inspection & testing • BS 7671
FI · Further investigationIllustrative EICR graphic. The original report photograph was not available from the published page.
What do the EICR codes actually mean?
BS 7671 Part 6 covers verification, inspection and testing. Reporting on existing installations is addressed in Chapter 65, including periodic inspection and testing. Observations should be judged against the actual risk and supported by the inspection and test findings.
An EICR containing a C1, C2 or FI observation will normally have an unsatisfactory overall assessment. The code should not be used as a substitute for carrying out tests that are reasonably possible within the agreed inspection scope.
What a properly conducted EICR should provide
Defined scope
The client understands what is being inspected and tested, and any agreed limitations are recorded transparently.
Recorded findings
Appropriate inspection and tests, including relevant continuity, insulation-resistance, polarity, loop-impedance and RCD tests, with results where applicable.
Proportionate recommendations
Clear observations and codes explaining the risk. Remedial estimates distinguish essential corrective work from optional upgrades.
Why the cheapest EICR may cost more
A low inspection fee does not automatically mean poor work. Equally, a higher fee is not proof of quality. What matters is competent inspection, adequate time, documented findings and transparent recommendations.
Unexpected expenses can arise from second opinions, repeat inspections, incorrect codes, avoidable replacements and delayed tenancy or property transactions.
Before accepting major remedial work
- Ask which specific defect corresponds to each code.
- Request the relevant schedules and test results.
- Ask why replacement is necessary rather than repair.
- Where appropriate, commission an independent technical review.
- Prioritise genuine C1/C2 concerns and FI investigations without delay.
Frequently asked questions about EICRs
Does an older consumer unit automatically fail an EICR?
No. Its age alone is not grounds for an unsatisfactory assessment. The inspector must assess its condition and whether protective measures are adequate for the installation and risks present.
Is an FI observation the same as a proven defect?
No. FI indicates further investigation is needed without delay to determine whether danger or potential danger exists. It should be supported by a defensible reason for the concern.
Can I request a second opinion on an EICR?
Yes. Keep the original report, inspection schedule and test results. An independent competent inspector can review the observations and carry out the relevant tests. Immediate safety risks should not be left unaddressed while a dispute is considered.
Does a C3 observation make the report unsatisfactory?
No. A C3 alone is an improvement recommendation and does not normally cause an unsatisfactory assessment.
Must a landlord act on an unsatisfactory EICR?
Private landlords in England have legal duties under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. Required remedial or investigative work must generally be completed within 28 days or sooner if the report specifies. An independent review can help clarify disputed findings, but should not be used to delay necessary safety work.
Related advice and electrical services
SECOND OPINIONS • EICRS • SOUTH LONDON
Unsure about the findings on your EICR?
Send NOD Electrical Services your report and explain which observations or proposed works concern you. We can discuss a review, further testing and a proportionate remedial plan where appropriate.
