How to Read an EICR Report

Quick Answer

A complete EICR has four main sections: a cover page with the overall result, a schedule of inspections covering visual checks, a schedule of test results with technical readings, and an observations section listing any defects with a C1, C2, C3, or FI code. The observations section is the one most people need to read carefully, since it tells you exactly what, if anything, needs fixing.

The Four Sections Explained

Cover Page. Shows the property address, inspection date, inspector details, and the overall result, satisfactory or unsatisfactory. Check the address carefully, since errors are common in flats and multi-let properties.

Schedule of Inspections. Records the visual checks carried out on accessible parts of the installation. This section is largely for the electrician’s own record and does not usually need close reading by a landlord.

Schedule of Test Results. Contains the technical test readings for each circuit, including earth loop impedance and insulation resistance. Most landlords do not need to interpret these numbers directly, since any problem they reveal gets flagged in the observations section instead.

Observations and Recommendations. The most important section. Lists every defect found, each with a classification code and a plain description of the issue.

The Codes Explained

Code	Meaning	Action Needed
C1	Danger present, immediate risk	Made safe on the spot, urgent remedial work follows
C2	Potentially dangerous	Remedial work required as soon as possible
C3	Improvement recommended	Optional, not required for a satisfactory result
FI	Further investigation needed	Additional assessment required before closing the item

A report is only unsatisfactory if it contains a C1, C2, or FI code. A C3 code alone does not make a report unsatisfactory.

Common Wording and What It Actually Means

“Modern safety device missing” usually means a C2, referring to a missing RCD or similar protection
“Cable connected to a gas or water pipe is undersized” usually means a C3, a minor bonding issue
“Potential fire risk” is often a C1 or C2 depending on severity
“Old fuse box” alone is often only a C3 unless a genuinely unsafe condition is also present

Red Flags That Suggest a Substandard Report

Missing the Schedule of Test Results entirely, since a proper inspection always generates test readings
Vague observation descriptions without specific circuit references
No clear overall result stated on the cover page
An electrician unwilling to explain any part of the report when asked

A complete, properly issued EICR should include all four sections described above. If any are missing, ask your electrician to provide the full document before accepting it as compliant.

What the 2026 Update Changed

The 2026 4th Amendment to the IET Wiring Regulations clarified how the FI code should be used. Previously, some electricians applied FI inconsistently, which made results harder to interpret. An FI observation does not automatically mean the installation is dangerous. It means further assessment is recommended to confirm whether an issue genuinely exists.

What to Do After Reading Your Report

If your report is satisfactory, keep it safely filed and note your next inspection date. If it is unsatisfactory, read our full guide on what happens if you fail an EICR for the complete legal process and 28-day deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the FI code on an EICR?
It means further investigation is needed to determine whether a genuine issue exists, rather than confirming immediate danger.

Does a C3 code mean my EICR failed?
No. A C3 code alone does not make a report unsatisfactory. Only C1, C2, or FI codes do.

What sections should a complete EICR have?
A cover page, a schedule of inspections, a schedule of test results, and an observations and recommendations section.

How do I know if my EICR is satisfactory?
Check the overall result stated clearly on the cover page.

What should I do if my EICR report seems incomplete?
Ask your electrician to provide the missing sections before accepting the report as compliant.