Comparison
Difference Between C2 and C3 on an EICR
C2 is potentially dangerous and fails an EICR, requiring urgent remedial work; C3 is a non-urgent improvement recommendation that keeps the report Satisfactory.
C2 and C3 are the two codes most often confused, because both describe items that are not immediately dangerous. The crucial difference is that C2 fails the report and C3 does not.
C2 — potentially dangerous
A C2 means a fault or change of conditions could make the installation dangerous. It requires urgent remedial action and makes the report Unsatisfactory.
C3 — improvement recommended
A C3 means the item is not dangerous and complies with the safety principles, but could be improved — often because the installation predates a newer requirement. It does not fail the report; the outcome stays Satisfactory.
Why the boundary matters
The line between C2 and C3 is where professional judgement counts most. An over-cautious inspector may code improvements as C2 (creating unnecessary "failures" and remedial cost); a lax one may downgrade real risks to C3. This is why a competent, experienced inspector matters.
| C2 | C3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Potentially dangerous | Improvement recommended |
| Report outcome | Unsatisfactory | Satisfactory |
| Action | Urgent remedial | Optional / good practice |
For the specific question of whether C3 items ever fail a report, see does a C3 fail an EICR.
More in this topic
Code explanation
EICR C1 Code: Danger Present
A C1 on an EICR means danger is present and a risk of injury exists. It requires immediate action and always makes a report Unsatisfactory.
Learn moreComparison
Difference Between C1 and C2 on an EICR
C1 means danger is present now and requires immediate action; C2 means potentially dangerous — safe now but a fault could make it dangerous. Both fail an EICR.
Learn moreCode explanation
EICR C2 Code: Potentially Dangerous
A C2 on an EICR means potentially dangerous — no immediate danger, but a fault could make it dangerous. It requires urgent remedial action and fails the report.
Learn moreCode explanation
EICR C3 Code: Improvement Recommended
A C3 on an EICR means improvement recommended — not dangerous and not a fail. Addressing C3 items is good practice but not legally required.
Learn moreThis article provides general guidance and distinguishes legislation, British Standards and good practice. It is not legal advice. Always confirm the specific duties applying to your property and tenure.