An unsatisfactory EICR is not a disaster and it is not unusual, particularly in older properties that have been extended or rewired in stages. It does start a clock, though, so it is worth knowing exactly what the next few weeks look like.
First, understand why it failed
Your report is unsatisfactory because it contains at least one C1, C2 or FI. Find those observations and read them. Each should say what was found and where. If you cannot tell from the wording what the actual problem is, ask before you agree to anything.
The 28 day rule
Remedial work must be completed within 28 days of the inspection, or sooner if the report specifies a shorter period. A C1 in particular should be dealt with immediately and is usually made safe during the visit itself.
Once the work is done you need written confirmation that it has been completed and that the installation now meets the standard. That document is what you supply to tenants and, on request, to the local authority. Without it you cannot demonstrate compliance even if the work was genuinely carried out.
Get the work quoted properly
Remedial work is a separate job from the inspection. Before anything is carried out you should have:
- A written quote listing each item of work
- Which observation each item resolves
- A clear price, agreed before work begins
You are entitled to have that work done by someone else if you prefer. The person who inspected does not have to be the person who fixes it.
Where landlords go wrong
Treating C3s as work
C3 observations are recommendations. They do not make your report unsatisfactory and they do not need doing to comply.
Missing the tenant copies
Existing tenants get a copy within 28 days of the inspection. New tenants get one before they move in. This is a separate requirement from doing the work.
Does the clock restart?
Fixing an unsatisfactory report does not reset your five year cycle. The next inspection is still due within five years of the original inspection date, unless the report specifies a shorter interval.
Read the codes, get the work quoted in writing, complete it inside 28 days, obtain written confirmation, send copies to your tenants, and file it all together.
