Common Electrical Defects That Require EICR Remedial Works

Most EICR remedial works are not triggered by dramatic electrical failures. They are caused by everyday deterioration, historic alterations, and systems that no longer match how a building is used.

For facilities managers, estates teams, and responsible persons, knowing the most common electrical defects helps you anticipate issues before inspection, plan remedial works efficiently, and avoid unnecessary disruption after a failed EICR.

This article explains the electrical defects most frequently identified during fixed wire testing (EICR), why they present risk, and how they are typically resolved.

Why the Same Electrical Defects Appear Again and Again

Electrical installations are rarely left untouched. Over time:

• Loads increase

• Layouts change

• Temporary solutions become permanent

• Work is carried out without full design review

Without regular inspection and planned maintenance, small issues develop into compliance failures.

An EICR does not create these problems. It exposes them.

Inadequate Earthing and Bonding

Inadequate earthing and bonding is one of the most common reasons an EICR is classed as unsatisfactory.

Why this defect is dangerous

Earthing and bonding ensure fault currents flow safely to earth. When bonding is missing, undersized, or incorrectly connected:

• Exposed metalwork can become live

• Protective devices may fail to operate

• Electric shock risk increases significantly

These issues are particularly common in older buildings or where services have been modified.

Typical remedial works required

• Installation or upgrade of main protective bonding

• Correction of earthing arrangements

• Testing and certification to confirm effectiveness

These defects are usually coded C2 and require remedial works.

Overheating Electrical Components

Overheating is a leading cause of electrical fires and a frequent EICR finding.

Common causes

• Loose or poorly terminated connections

• Overloaded circuits

• Ageing switchgear

• Low-quality previous repairs

Overheating is not always visible during a standard inspection.

This is why thermal imaging surveys are often used to support EICRs, identifying high-resistance connections before failure occurs.

Typical remedial works required

• Re-termination of connections

• Load balancing

• Replacement of damaged components

• Distribution board upgrades where necessary

Obsolete or Unsafe Distribution Boards

Outdated distribution boards are a common trigger for remedial works, particularly in commercial and public sector premises.

Why older boards fail EICRs

• Lack of modern protective devices

• Increased fire risk from combustible materials

• Poor fault protection

• Incompatibility with modern electrical demand

Boards using outdated fuse technology or showing signs of thermal damage often result in unsatisfactory reports.

Typical remedial works required

• Replacement with modern compliant distribution boards

• Installation of appropriate protective devices

• Circuit testing and certification

Deteriorated or Damaged Cabling

Cabling naturally degrades over time, especially in harsh or high-use environments.

Common cabling defects

• Cracked or brittle insulation

• Exposed conductors

• Unsupported cables

• Mechanical damage caused by building works

These issues are often hidden above ceilings or within containment systems.

Typical remedial works required

• Cable replacement

• Improved containment and support

• Rerouting away from heat or mechanical risk

• Full circuit testing following repair

Inadequate Circuit Protection

Protective devices are critical to preventing electric shock and fire.

Common protection issues

• Incorrect device ratings

• Missing residual current protection

• Devices added during alterations without proper coordination

These defects increase the likelihood of injury or fire during fault conditions.

Typical remedial works required

• Installation of suitable protective devices

• Circuit upgrades to meet current safety expectations

• Verification testing and documentation

Poor Workmanship From Historic Alterations

Many EICR failures are caused by electrical work carried out years earlier without adequate testing or certification.

Common examples

• Mixed wiring systems

• Incorrect terminations

• Unsupported junctions

• Circuits added without documentation

These defects often result in FI observations where safety cannot be confirmed.

Typical remedial works required

• Tracing and identification of circuits

• Correction of unsafe terminations

• Removal of non-compliant connections

• Issuing updated certification

Missing or Incorrect Circuit Identification

Clear circuit identification is a basic safety requirement, yet it is frequently missing.

Why this matters

• Delays safe isolation during emergencies

• Increases risk during maintenance

• Leads to accidental shutdowns

EICRs commonly identify missing or inaccurate circuit schedules.

Typical remedial works required

• Accurate circuit tracing

• Updated labelling

• Revised electrical documentation

Electrical Damage Following Refurbishment Works

Refurbishment and maintenance activities regularly introduce electrical defects.

Common post-works issues

• Damaged cables

• Improvised alterations

• Incomplete testing

• Poor reinstatement

These problems are often only discovered during a later EICR.

Typical remedial works required

• Repair or replacement of damaged installations

• Testing and certification

• Improved protection and routing of services

Why These Defects Must Be Addressed

Each defect identified during an EICR represents an unmanaged risk.

Failure to complete remedial works can result in:

• Enforcement action

• Increased fire risk

• Insurance issues

• Liability following incidents

Once defects are identified, they must be managed and resolved.

Planning EICR Remedial Works Effectively

Effective remedial planning includes:

• Risk-based prioritisation

• Clear scopes of work

• Coordination with building users

• Minimal disruption strategies

A competent contractor should support safe delivery, not add operational pressure.

How Protest ES Ltd Delivers Electrical Remedial Works

Protest ES Ltd provides a structured approach to electrical remedial repairs following failed EICRs.

Our services include:

• Integration with fixed wire testing

• Clear remedial scopes

• Phased delivery to reduce disruption

• Certification and reporting

• Ongoing compliance support

Key Takeaways for Facilities Managers

• Most EICR failures are caused by common, predictable defects

• Earthing, overheating, and outdated equipment are frequent issues

• Historic workmanship is a major risk factor

• Refurbishments often introduce hidden defects

• Early planning reduces disruption and risk

• Proper remedial works restore safety and compliance