What happens if I fail an EICR and don't fix it – Advice from Electriman, North London Electricians

What Happens If You Ignore a Failed EICR?

Receiving an Unsatisfactory EICR can feel overwhelming, but ignoring it is never the right option. Here is what the failure actually means and why acting quickly matters.

What a Failed EICR Actually Means

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is graded Unsatisfactory when the inspector identifies at least one C1 (Danger Present) or C2 (Potentially Dangerous) code. A C3 alone (Improvement Recommended) does not cause a fail.

C1 — Danger Present: Immediate risk to life. The circuit may need isolating on the spot.

C2 — Potentially Dangerous: Likely to become dangerous. Remedial work required urgently.

C3 — Improvement Recommended: Not a failure, but worth addressing.

What Happens If You Do Nothing?

For homeowners:

Your home insurance may be voided if a fire or shock incident occurs and an outstanding EICR failure is discovered.

Mortgage lenders — particularly for older properties — may withdraw lending or require remedial work before completion.

You could face civil liability if a visitor or tenant is injured.

Selling your home becomes significantly harder; solicitors and buyers routinely request EICR certificates.

For landlords (this is where the law is very clear):

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 legally require landlords to carry out

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.