What does a Code 1 on my EICR certificate mean and how urgent is it to fix – Advice from Electriman, North London Electricians

If your EICR certificate has come back with a Code 1, it means the electrician who carried out the inspection found something genuinely dangerous in your home's electrics. Code 1 stands for Danger Present, and it is the highest severity rating on an Electrical Installation Condition Report.

What does it actually mean in plain terms?

The electrician has found a fault that poses an immediate risk of electric shock, burns, or fire. This is not a future concern or a minor issue that can wait. It is a live hazard existing right now.

Common reasons a Code 1 is issued include:

1. Exposed live conductors that anyone could accidentally touch.

2. A complete lack of earthing on the installation or on specific metalwork.

3. A fuse or circuit breaker that has failed and leaves a circuit with no overload protection whatsoever.

4. Water ingress directly into a consumer unit or live accessory.

5. Severe deterioration of cables leaving bare copper exposed.

What should you do right now?

Do not panic, but do act quickly. If the electrician who issued the report is still present, ask them to isolate the affected circuit before they leave. If you can identify the problem area, avoid using that circuit until it is repaired. Do not attempt to investigate or fix live electrical faults yourself under any circumstances.

Contact a registered electrician, ideally one registered with NICEIC, NAPIT, or another Part P competent person scheme, and exp

Need a qualified electrician in North London?

Electriman covers Mill Hill, Barnet, Finchley, Edgware, Enfield, Watford and surrounding areas. All work is Part P certified and fully insured.