From Fixed Wire Testing to EICR Remedials: The Process Involved

Electrical installations weaken over time. Cables deteriorate, protective devices age, connections loosen, and buildings undergo changes that place new pressure on circuits. Fixed Wire Testing, also known as an Electrical Installation Condition Report, is the structured way to assess these issues and confirm whether a building is electrically safe. What follows the EICR is just as important. Remedial work must be completed to restore compliance and protect people, property, and operations.

This guide explains the full process from Fixed Wire Testing through to remedial repairs. It outlines what facilities managers and duty holders should expect, how compliance is restored, and why choosing a competent contractor such as Protest ES Ltd is essential for safety and traceability.

What Fixed Wire Testing Involves

Fixed Wire Testing is a detailed inspection and test of a building’s electrical installation. It evaluates the performance and condition of circuits, identifies defects, and determines whether the installation is safe for continued use.

The process includes:

• Visual inspection of distribution boards, wiring systems, protection devices, and accessories

• Testing continuity and insulation resistance

• Confirming polarity

• Checking earthing and bonding

• Verifying disconnection times

• Assessing distribution arrangements

• Evaluating circuit loading and suitability

Testing is carried out in accordance with BS 7671, the IET Wiring Regulations.

Learn more about the testing process here: Fixed Wire Testing.

How EICR Results Are Graded

Once testing is complete, the building receives an Electrical Installation Condition Report. The findings are graded using industry standard codes.

C1

Immediate danger. A serious safety issue is present and must be made safe on the spot.

C2

Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial action is required to remove the risk.

C3

Improvement recommended. Non compliant but not unsafe. The installation can remain in service although upgrading is advised.

FI

Further investigation is required. Engineers need more time or access to confirm the root of the problem.

Any C1, C2, or FI codes mean the installation is not satisfactory.

Facilities teams often focus on passing the test, but the true value comes from resolving issues identified in the report.

Planning Remedial Work After an Unsatisfactory EICR

Once the EICR identifies defects, a structured remedial plan must be developed. This ensures the installation is restored to a safe and compliant condition.

A professional remedial plan includes:

• A list of each defect

• The relevant EICR code

• Recommended corrective action

• Estimated material and labour requirements

• Sequencing and scheduling options

• Access considerations

• Any isolations required

Protest ES Ltd provides full remedial scoping, helping facilities managers understand which issues pose the greatest risk and what needs to be prioritised.

Common Remedial Tasks Following Fixed Wire Testing

While every site is different, several remedial issues appear consistently across commercial buildings.

Damaged or deteriorated wiring

Old or compromised cables can lead to overheating, arcing, or total circuit failure.

Faulty accessories

Broken switches, sockets, fused spurs, or isolators must be replaced.

Inadequate earthing and bonding

Missing or undersized earth conductors are a major safety risk.

Overloaded circuits

Unsigned circuits, poor distribution planning, or additions without assessment can cause overheating.

Defective distribution boards

Damaged busbars, incorrect fuses, or outdated MCBs need to be replaced.

Polarity issues

Incorrect polarity can make accessible parts live and presents a serious shock risk.

Insulation breakdown

Low insulation resistance often indicates age or moisture issues.

Remedial work ensures that all these risks are removed and that the installation becomes safe for continued use.

For more details on repair services, visit Electrical Remedial Repairs.

How Remedial Work Is Scheduled to Minimise Disruption

Electrical work must always be safely planned, but in busy commercial environments it must also be scheduled to avoid unnecessary downtime.

Out of hours repairs

Many clients choose night or weekend works to ensure business continuity.

Phased repairs

Large buildings may require a staged approach so only small areas are taken offline at a time.

Isolation planning

Safe isolation procedures ensure power is cut only where necessary, keeping most of the building operational.

Working around sensitive activity

Healthcare, education, hospitality, and retail environments often require special planning to protect vulnerable people or high footfall areas.

Protest ES Ltd provides flexible scheduling options to ensure safety without interrupting operations.

Linking EICR Remedials With Other Compliance Tasks

Many electrical defects are linked to wider building compliance issues. Connecting remedial work with other services helps create a joined-up compliance strategy.

Examples include:

• Thermal imaging to assess overheating or load imbalance

• PAT or EET testing to identify faulty equipment

• Fire risk assessments that highlight electrical sources of ignition

• Emergency lighting testing to confirm escape routes are safe

 Learn more about our related services:

• Thermal Imaging

• EET Testing

Integrating services reduces the risk of compliance gaps and improves reporting quality.

Documenting Completion and Achieving Compliance

Once remedial work is complete, the contractor must issue documentation proving that defects have been corrected. This includes:

• Updated distribution schedules

• Minor works certificates

• Installation certificates for replaced components

• Photographic evidence

• Updated circuit labelling

• A summary of all completed work

If required, a new EICR can be issued to confirm that the installation is now satisfactory.

Clear documentation is essential for insurers, compliance audits, and duty holder peace of mind.

Why Protest ES Ltd Is the Right Partner for EICR and Remedial Work

Protest ES Ltd provides a complete electrical compliance pathway. We support clients from initial testing through to full remedial resolution, with national coverage and certified engineers.

Our approach includes:

• NICEIC accredited engineers

• Full digital reporting

• Clear remedial quotations

• Flexible scheduling

• Out of hours work

• Experienced teams in complex environments

• Integrated compliance services

We make EICR compliance simple, structured, and fully traceable.

Conclusion

Fixed Wire Testing is only the first step in electrical safety. The real value comes from correcting defects, restoring safety, and ensuring the installation remains compliant with UK electrical regulations.

By understanding the process and partnering with a competent contractor such as Protest ES Ltd, facilities managers can maintain safe, reliable, and audit-ready electrical systems.

To book Fixed Wire Testing or arrange EICR remedial work, visit our Get a Quote page.