Common Issues Found in EICR Reports
Many EICR reports reveal the same types of issues — particularly in older properties. Knowing what to expect helps you understand the engineer's findings and decide what action is needed. Some issues are serious (C1 or C2) and must be addressed immediately. Others (C3) are recommendations that improve safety without being urgent.
Lack of RCD Protection
One of the most common findings, particularly in properties with older consumer units, is the absence of RCD (residual current device) protection. RCDs are life-saving devices that cut the power in milliseconds if a dangerous fault is detected — such as someone touching a live wire. Current regulations (BS 7671:2018) require RCD protection for all socket outlets, circuits in high-risk areas (bathrooms, kitchens, gardens), and most other circuits. An older fuse board without RCDs will typically receive a C3 or C2 code.
Older Wiring: Rubber-Insulated or Aluminium Cables
Properties built before the 1970s may still have rubber-insulated wiring, which becomes brittle and cracks over time, or single-insulated cables that do not meet current standards. These will typically receive a C2 code if the insulation shows signs of deterioration. Aluminium wiring (common in some 1960s and 1970s properties) can also cause issues at connection points and may receive C2 or C3 codes.
Inadequate Earthing and Bonding
Earthing connects all metalwork in the installation to earth, providing a safe path for fault current. Bonding connects metallic pipework (gas, water, oil) to earth. Missing or inadequate earthing and bonding is a common C2 finding, particularly in older properties where earthing has never been updated. Without proper earthing, a fault on a metallic appliance could give a dangerous shock.
Overloaded or Incorrectly Rated Circuits
Circuits with too many high-power appliances, cables that are too small for the load they carry, or protective devices (fuses, MCBs) that are incorrectly rated for the cable size are all common findings. These can cause overheating, fire risk, or mean that a protective device will not operate correctly in a fault. These typically receive C2 codes.
DIY or Non-Compliant Additions
Sockets added without proper earthing, lighting circuits extended without following regulations, or work carried out without a Building Regulations notification (Part P) where required are very common findings. These are typically coded C2 or C3 depending on severity. Any electrical work that is not 'notifiable' under Part P should still have been carried out to BS 7671 standards.