Comparison
Difference Between C1 and C2 on an EICR
C1 means danger is present now and requires immediate action; C2 means potentially dangerous — safe now but a fault could make it dangerous. Both fail an EICR.
C1 and C2 are the two EICR codes that indicate danger. Both make a report Unsatisfactory, but they differ in immediacy of risk.
C1 — danger present
A C1 means the danger exists right now. Someone could be injured in the installation's current state — for example by touching an exposed live part. C1 requires immediate action, and a competent inspector will make it safe on site where possible.
C2 — potentially dangerous
A C2 means the installation is safe under normal conditions, but a fault or change of conditions could make it dangerous — for example missing RCD protection, or inadequate earthing that would matter under fault. C2 requires urgent (not immediate) remedial action.
The key distinction
| C1 | C2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Risk | Present now | Under fault/changed conditions |
| Action | Immediate | Urgent |
| Report outcome | Unsatisfactory | Unsatisfactory |
What both have in common
Both fail the EICR and both must be put right by a competent person and certified. The difference tells you how fast to move: a C1 cannot wait; a C2 must be scheduled promptly. See also C2 vs C3.
Related service
C1, C2 & FI Remedials
Targeted rectification of dangerous and potentially dangerous observations, prioritised by risk.
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Code explanation
EICR C1 Code: Danger Present
A C1 on an EICR means danger is present and a risk of injury exists. It requires immediate action and always makes a report Unsatisfactory.
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EICR C2 Code: Potentially Dangerous
A C2 on an EICR means potentially dangerous — no immediate danger, but a fault could make it dangerous. It requires urgent remedial action and fails the report.
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Difference Between C2 and C3 on an EICR
C2 is potentially dangerous and fails an EICR, requiring urgent remedial work; C3 is a non-urgent improvement recommendation that keeps the report Satisfactory.
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EICR C3 Code: Improvement Recommended
A C3 on an EICR means improvement recommended — not dangerous and not a fail. Addressing C3 items is good practice but not legally required.
Learn moreThis article provides general guidance and distinguishes legislation, British Standards and good practice. It is not legal advice. Always confirm the specific duties applying to your property and tenure.