If you’ve just received an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), you’ll see observation codes like C1, C2, FI (and sometimes C3). These aren’t just technical labels—they tell you how urgent a fault is and what you must do next. As a specialist PAT testing company, All In One Pro PAT Testing regularly works alongside EICR providers, site managers, and duty holders to help organisations stay compliant, safe, and audit‑ready.
This guide breaks down what each code means, how quickly you need to act, real‑world examples, and how PAT testing complements your fixed‑wire safety strategy.
If you’re looking for routine appliance testing, see our PAT Testing service page: https://allinonepropat.co.uk/pat-testing/
| Code | Meaning | Risk level | Action required | Typical timeframe | Report outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present | Immediate risk of injury | Urgent remedial action is required | Immediate | Unsatisfactory |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous | Could become a danger | Urgent remedial action required | As soon as possible (often within 28 days or sooner if specified) | Unsatisfactory |
| FI | Further investigation required | Unknown risk until investigated | Investigate and then rectify any issues found | Promptly (often within 28 days or sooner if specified) | Unsatisfactory |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | Not unsafe, but could be improved | Optional upgrade to current standards | Planned works | Make it safe immediately and repair |
Note on regulations
| Area | EICR (Fixed wiring) | PAT Testing (Portable appliances) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Circuits, distribution boards, fixed wiring, earthing/bonding | Portable/transportable electrical equipment and leads |
| Typical frequency | Risk‑based: from 6 months to 2+ years, depending on environment and equipment | Every 3-5 years in many commercial settings, 5 years is typical for rentals (or as the report recommends) |
| Common findings | C1/C2/FI defects in installation safety | Failed appliances, damaged plugs/leads, failed insulation/earth tests |
| Record | EICR certificate | PAT test certificate/asset register |
| Outcome of failures | Unsatisfactory until rectified | Every 3-5 years in many commercial settings, 5 years is typical for rentals (or as the report recommends) |
Need portable appliance testing? Book via our PAT Testing page: https://allinonepropat.co.uk/pat-testing/
| Setting | Example issue | Likely code | Why it matters | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Office | Exposed live terminals inside a cracked socket faceplate | C1 | Immediate shock risk to staff | A potential hidden fault could escalate |
| Workshop | No RCD protection on socket circuits used for handheld tools | C2 | Increased shock risk in fault conditions | Install RCD/RCBO protection urgently |
| Retail | Outdated main bonding practices, but still functional | FI | Potential hidden fault could escalate | Investigate root cause; remediate as required |
| Hospitality | Improvement would enhance safety and compliance with the latest standards | C3 | Isolate the circuit and replace the accessory immediately | Isolate the circuit and replace accessory immediately |
| Role | Typical responsibilities | Timeframe guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Business owner/duty holder | Ensure EICR/PAT schedules, act on C1/C2/FI, keep records | C1 immediate; C2/FI typically within 28 days or sooner if specified |
| Landlord (PRS England) | Obtain EICR at required intervals, complete remedials/investigations | Within 28 days (or sooner if specified in the report) |
| Competent electrician | Coordinate access, budgets, and scheduling; track closure of actions | Carry out EICR, classify observations, perform remedials, and issue evidence |
| Facilities/HS manager | Coordinate access, budgets, scheduling; track closure of actions | Align with risk assessment and legal obligations |
While EICR covers fixed wiring and PAT covers appliances, both are essential to a complete electrical safety strategy. All In One Pro PAT Testing can:
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Yes. If your report only lists C3 recommendations and no C1, C2, or FI observations, the overall outcome can be “Satisfactory.”
Many reports specify completion within 28 days, or sooner if stated by the inspector. For high‑risk environments, act as quickly as practicable.
No. EICR tests the fixed wiring; PAT testing covers portable appliances. Both are needed for a robust safety regime.
The engineer should make the installation safe immediately (e.g., isolate the circuit). Further remedial work is then required before normal use resumes.
It depends on the environment and your risk assessment. Commercial sites often every 3–5 years. For rented homes in England, typically every 5 years or as required by law.
Yes. Coordinating PAT with EICR reduces downtime and ensures all records are aligned. See our PAT Testing page to enquire: https://allinonepropat.co.uk/pat-testing/
Yes, we regularly PAT test construction and industrial equipment as part of risk‑based schedules. Enquire via our PAT Testing page.
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Ready to tighten up your electrical compliance? Book risk‑based PAT testing today and coordinate with your next EICR for minimal disruption.
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