EDIS USER GUIDES

BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 (Amendment 4) introduces a major structural change to the way observations are categorised on an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). [1]

Under Amendment 4, the observations section of the EICR is physically split into two distinct sections to clearly separate defects that pose an immediate risk from those that are merely advisory or require further review: 
    • Part 1 (Unsatisfactory Outcomes): Strictly reserved for recording observations that warrant C1 or C2 classification codes. If any item is listed in this section, the overall assessment of the report must be declared Unsatisfactory. 
    • Part 2 (Satisfactory Outcomes): Reserved for recording C3 classification codes and items calling for Further Investigation (FI). Items listed in this section do not automatically trigger an overall unsatisfactory result.

2. The Major Shift for the FI (Further Investigation) Code
Historically, an FI code was grouped alongside C1 and C2 codes, meaning any “Further Investigation” item would automatically result in a failed (unsatisfactory) EICR. 
Under Amendment 4, this has completely changed: 
    • Now Advisory: The FI classification has been reworded to “Further investigation is advised” and is grouped next to C3. 
    • No Automatic Failure: An FI code no longer automatically renders an EICR Unsatisfactory. The overall assessment can remain “Satisfactory” even with an open FI code if the inspector believes there is no immediate evidence of a C1 or C2 danger. 
    • Inspector Judgement: This places the responsibility onto the inspector’s professional judgment to decide if the lack of information constitutes a risk or merely a recommendation for further review. (For example, an unlabelled circuit is a non-compliance, but the inspector must judge if it gives rise to danger). 

Summary of EICR Codes Under Amendment 4
CodeMeaningImpact on EICR Outcome
C1Danger Present – Immediate risk of injury. Remedial action required immediately.❌ Unsatisfactory
C2Potentially Dangerous – Urgent remedial action required.❌ Unsatisfactory
C3Improvement Recommended – Does not comply with current regulations, but is safe.Satisfactory
FIFurther Investigation Advised – Something needs checking, but no immediate danger is proven.Satisfactory (New change)

3. Additional EICR Reporting Updates
  • Visual Evidence: A formal note has been added to Regulation 653.2.2 clarifying that photographic and thermographic images are explicitly permitted and encouraged to be attached to the EICR to justify the given codes.
  • Recipient Guidance: EICRs must explicitly contain clear guidance notes for the recipient to ensure landlords and property owners understand the distinction between their mandatory obligations (C1/C2) and advisory items