Read the report's overall outcome, observations, limitations and next-inspection date together. The code identifies the nature of a finding; the electrician must explain the required safe response.
Read the codes
- C1 means danger is present and requires immediate action to make safe through a competent person.
- C2 identifies a potentially dangerous condition requiring remedial action.
- FI requires further investigation without delay; the result may reveal a dangerous condition.
- C3 identifies an improvement recommendation. It is not the same as C1 or C2, but should be considered and recorded.
Plan the response
- Ask the electrician what must be isolated, repaired or investigated and the required timescale.
- Check whether limitations leave part of the installation unassessed.
- Coordinate access and interim services where equipment cannot safely remain in use.
Verify closure
- Match the completion evidence to every relevant observation reference.
- Retain the original report and later confirmation together.
- Provide documents to the required recipients under the country's rules and set the next inspection from the report.
Example: the invoice says electrical repairs
A fictional invoice uses that general description but the EICR contains three C2 observations. Ask for evidence showing which observations were addressed and the resulting tests. The general description does not establish closure of all three.
What to do
- Identify dangerous findings and obtain immediate professional instructions.
- Arrange required investigation or repair within the applicable timescale.
- Keep written confirmation against each observation.
Evidence to keep
- Full EICR, observation references and limitations.
- Remedial work, further investigation and completion or test evidence.
Sources and guidance
- Electrical safety standards: landlord guidanceUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Repairing Standard: electrical installations and appliancesScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Fitness of homes for human habitation: landlord guidanceWelsh Government · checked 20 October 2026