
EICR Unsatisfactory Report: 2026 C1, C2 Remedial Times & Landlord Rules
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must ensure electrical installations are inspected every 5 years. If your electrician issues an eicr unsatisfactory report, urgent statutory countdowns begin immediately. You can book an accredited Domestic EICR Electrical Certificate with qualified engineers across the UK.
For official government guidance on electrical compliance, review the GOV.UK Landlord Electrical Safety Guidance.
Remedial Action Note: Fire safety risks identified during electrical testing often require an immediate review of your London landlord fire risk assessment to preserve landlord building insurance cover.
What makes an EICR report unsatisfactory?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is classified as unsatisfactory if the qualified inspector identifies any C1 (Danger Present), C2 (Potentially Dangerous), or FI (Further Investigation Required) fault codes. Only reports with C3 (Improvement Recommended) codes or zero defects are deemed Satisfactory.
When an eicr unsatisfactory report is issued, landlords are legally required to complete all remedial works or further investigations within a strict statutory deadline.
The statutory 28-day remedial work deadline
By law, landlords must take decisive action following an unsatisfactory electrical inspection:
- 28-Day Remedial Window: All C1, C2, and FI faults must be rectified by a qualified electrician within 28 days of the original test (or sooner if specified on the report).
- Written Confirmation of Works: Obtain a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC) or Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) confirming all defects are resolved.
- Tenant Notification: Provide written confirmation of completed remedial works to all existing tenants within 28 days.
- Local Authority Submission: Submit proof of completed repairs and the original report to the local housing authority within 7 days if requested.
- Code C1 (Danger Present): Immediate risk of electric shock or fire. Electrician may isolate the circuit immediately.
- Code C2 (Potentially Dangerous): Critical defect that could become dangerous under fault conditions (e.g. missing RCD protection, damaged earthing).
- Code FI (Further Investigation): Unknown circuit tracing or hidden hazard requiring specialist investigation without delay.
- Code C3 (Improvement Recommended): Non-compliant with latest 18th Edition wiring rules but does not invalidate certificate safety.
Failing to complete remedial works within the 28-day window allows local housing authorities to issue Financial Penalty Notices of up to £30,000 per breach, execute emergency remedial action at the landlord’s expense, and revoke HMO or selective property licenses.
Do you need a full new EICR after remedial repairs?
No. You do not need to pay for a completely new EICR test. Your electrician will issue a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC) or Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) certifying that specific C1, C2, and FI items have been rectified. Kept together, these documents form full legal compliance.
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Common electrical faults that trigger an unsatisfactory EICR
Missing RCD Protection
Absence of 30mA residual current devices protecting socket outlets, bathrooms, and vulnerable domestic circuits.
Damaged Earthing & Bonding
Undersized, loose, or disconnected main protective bonding conductors to incoming water and gas pipework.
Exposed Live Parts
Cracked consumer unit casings, broken socket faceplates, or open junction boxes exposing hazardous live wiring.
Overloaded Circuits
Incorrectly rated circuit breakers, thermal damage to cables, or excessive socket spurs connected to a single ring main.
Why choose Smart Property Checks?
Smart Property Checks works with NICEIC and NAPIT registered electricians specializing in landlord compliance. We deliver clear, itemized reports and rapid remedial clearance certificates within 24 to 48 hours. Contact our team to arrange your inspection.
The booking process
- Select your domestic or commercial EICR package based on consumer unit circuits
- Pick an inspection date that suits you or your tenants
- Our accredited electrician completes the thorough electrical installation test
- Receive your complete digital EICR certificate and itemized report in 24 to 48 hours
Book your domestic EICR inspection today with Smart Property Checks and protect your property investment.
Common Questions
What does an EICR unsatisfactory report mean for a landlord?
An unsatisfactory report means the electrical installation has C1, C2, or FI defects that pose safety risks. The landlord is legally required to carry out remedial works within 28 days.
How long does a landlord have to fix C2 faults on an EICR?
Under UK law, landlords have a maximum of 28 days from the date of the test to complete all C2 remedial works, unless the electrician specifies a shorter timeframe.
Do C3 codes make an EICR unsatisfactory?
No. Code C3 indicates an improvement is recommended for modern standards, but the installation remains legally Satisfactory and compliant.
What are the penalties for ignoring an unsatisfactory EICR?
Local councils can issue financial penalties of up to £30,000, serve remedial enforcement notices, and carry out emergency repairs at the landlord’s expense.
Do I need a new EICR after remedial work is done?
No. A Minor Works Certificate (MEIWC) from a qualified electrician confirming the faults have been repaired serves as complete legal proof alongside the original report.
How much does a landlord EICR test cost?
A domestic EICR for a 1–3 bedroom property starts from £99, with commercial and larger properties priced according to consumer units and circuit counts.
How often must a rental property have an EICR?
Rental properties in England must undergo a formal EICR inspection at least once every 5 years, or on change of tenancy if recommended.
Who must receive a copy of the EICR report?
Landlords must provide a copy to existing tenants within 28 days, new tenants before occupation, and the local council within 7 days upon formal request.
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