Code explanation
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.
A C3 classification means "Improvement recommended". The item is not dangerous and does not breach safety, but bringing it up to the current standard would improve the installation.
What a C3 typically covers
- An older installation that meets the standard it was installed to, but not the latest edition of BS 7671.
- Absence of a feature that is now recommended but was not required when installed — for example, in some cases, additional protective measures.
- Minor improvements to labelling or arrangement that aid safe operation.
What you need to do
- Nothing is legally required for a C3 — the report remains Satisfactory.
- However, addressing C3 items is good practice, especially when other work is being done, and can prevent an item becoming a C2 in future.
Reading C3s sensibly
A long list of C3s is common on older but safe installations. Use them as a planned-improvement list, not a cause for alarm. For the practical difference between C3 and the codes that do fail a report, see C2 vs C3 and does a C3 fail an EICR.
Frequently asked questions
Does a C3 mean the EICR has failed?
No. C3 observations do not make a report Unsatisfactory. A report can contain any number of C3 items and still be Satisfactory. Addressing them improves the installation but is not mandatory.
More in this topic
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.
Learn moreComparison
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.
Learn moreCode explanation
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.
Learn moreComparison
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.
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.