Common EICR Defects

Certain defects appear again and again on EICRs, particularly in older installations. Knowing the usual culprits helps duty holders anticipate likely remedial work and understand why observations have been coded the way they have.

Frequently recorded defects

• No or inadequate RCD protection — many older installations lack the residual current device protection now expected for socket circuits and cables buried in walls. Often coded C2 or C3 depending on circumstances.
• Inadequate earthing and bonding — missing or undersized main protective bonding to gas, water and other services. Commonly C2.
• Damaged or deteriorated accessories — cracked sockets, scorched terminals, broken enclosures. Coded according to the risk, up to C1 where live parts are exposed.
• Overloaded or poorly arranged circuits — signs of overheating, or circuits extended beyond their safe capacity.
• Missing circuit identification and labelling — often C3, but important for safe isolation.
• DIY or non-compliant additions — alterations made without proper design or certification.

Why these matter

Each defect is assessed on the risk it presents, not just its presence. The same issue can attract different codes depending on where it is and what it affects — which is why a competent, experienced inspector is essential.

Turning defects into a plan

An EICR listing several defects is not a disaster — it is a prioritised action list. Group the work by code urgency (remedial priorities), fix it with a competent person, and keep the certificates alongside the report.