EICR codes explained: C1, C2, C3 and FI

Why it matters

Landlords frequently pay for optional C3 improvements while missing the required C2 work, or lose track of the twenty eight day deadline and the written confirmation the rules require.

Legal requirements

• Inspection and testing at least every five years by a qualified person is required.
• A copy of the report must go to tenants within twenty eight days and to new tenants before occupation.
• C1, C2 and FI findings require remedial or investigative work within twenty eight days or any shorter period stated.
• Written confirmation that the work is complete must be supplied to tenants and the local authority where requested.

Common mistakes

• Treating a C3 as compulsory and spending money that was not required.
• Missing the twenty eight day window because a contractor was slow to quote.
• Failing to obtain and circulate the written confirmation of completion.
• Using an inspector without the appropriate competence and qualifications.

Practical guidance

• Ask the inspector to explain each observation and to quote separately for C1 and C2 items.
• Diarise the twenty eight day deadline the moment the report arrives.
• Keep the report, the remedial invoice and the written confirmation together.
• Schedule the next inspection date immediately so the five year cycle never lapses.

What each code means

C1 means danger present and a risk of injury requiring immediate action. C2 means potentially dangerous and requires urgent remedial work. C3 means improvement recommended and is advisory only, so the report can still be satisfactory. FI means further investigation is required without delay, and it also makes the report unsatisfactory. A report with only C3 observations is satisfactory and needs no action beyond considering the advice.

Choosing an inspector

The inspection must be carried out by a qualified and competent person. Membership of a recognised competent person scheme, appropriate inspection and testing qualifications and public liability insurance are the baseline. Ask how long the inspection will take, because a thorough test on a three bedroom house takes hours rather than minutes. A very cheap, very fast report often produces long remedial lists from the same contractor.