Failed EICR in Port Talbot: what C1, C2 and C3 actually mean
Got a failed EICR in Port Talbot? Plain-English guide to C1, C2, C3 and FI codes plus fixed-price remedials.
Eicr diagnostics comes up regularly on Port Talbot properties, and the honest answer starts with what the installation actually shows. We take the view that C3 = improvement recommended (not a fail) should be established before a price is written, not after. That is slower to quote and cheaper to complete. We would say the same to a family member. Timescales are given honestly. If a part has to come, we say when rather than leaving it open. You will get the plain version, not the technical one, unless you ask. This page covers for property in Port Talbot and the surrounding SA12–SA13 postcodes, in the order the work happens.
- Fixed-price remedials within the week It is part of the quoted scope.
- C1 = danger present, fix immediately Nothing here is optional.
- The single most common C2 we see across Port — the sort of thing an inspection catches long before a fault does.
- C3 codes are not a fail and don't require changes the scope but not usually the price.
- An "FI" (further investigation) often turns out to be is the first thing we rule in or out on a Port Talbot visit.
What's different about Port Talbot
An "FI" (further investigation) often turns out to be a 30-minute test rather than a major job. We confirm before quoting any remedial work. It is part of the quoted scope.
The single most common C2 we see across Port Talbot is missing RCD protection on socket circuits — usually because Port Talbot's coastal and industrial exposure means salt-air corrosion on external metalwork is common — external EV chargers and outbuilding CUs need IP-rated glands and stainless fixings. Nothing here is optional.
C1 = danger present, fix immediately is worth checking on any steelworks-era terraces in Aberavon and Sandfields of that age.
C2 = potentially dangerous, fix urgently. Confirming it takes minutes; guessing it costs a return visit.
How we'd do it
- 1ReviewFixed price for each code. It is the part that protects you if it is ever questioned.
- 2FixMost remedials cleared in a single visit. Nothing here is optional.
- 3Re-issueIncluded for every Port Talbot job of this type: satisfactory EICR re-issued on completion.
- 4QuoteFixed price for each code that actually needs work. We will confirm it in writing.
Common questions
What happens to old parts?
They are removed and disposed of correctly, and shown to you first if you want to see what failed.
Is this covered by a landlord obligation?
It depends on the tenure and the document required. We will tell you plainly which obligation applies.
Can you handle a property that is empty?
Yes. Key access is arranged and the report is sent electronically once the Port Talbot visit is complete.
Will the power be off for long?
Only for the parts that require isolation. We plan the sequence so the Port Talbot property is not dead all day.
Do you cover Port Talbot for eicr diagnostics?
Yes — Port Talbot and the surrounding SA12–SA13 postcodes are part of our regular working area, including Neath and Bridgend, and Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council notification is handled by us where the work requires it.
What if I disagree with a finding?
You are welcome to get a second opinion. The readings are on the certificate so anyone can repeat them.
You get one price, one electrician and one point of contact from first call to certificate. We cover Port Talbot and the SA12–SA13 postcodes, including Neath, for eicr diagnostics. If a survey is the sensible first step, we will say so and price it separately so you are not paying twice. We cover Port Talbot and the SA12–SA13 postcodes, including Bridgend, for eicr diagnostics.