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.