The Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a crucial safety check for all electrical systems in domestic, commercial, and industrial properties. Its primary purpose is to identify any faults or potential hazards that could pose risks, such as electrical shock or fire.
With that in mind, one question we get asked often is whether a plastic consumer unit will cause a property to fail the inspection. Therefore, to answer whether or not it’s still compliant with the current UK safety standards, we walk you through everything you need to know below.
The Change In Regulations: Metal vs Plastic Consumer Units
In January 2016, an important amendment to the 17th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) came into effect. Regulation 421.1.201 states that consumer units installed in domestic premises must be made of a non-combustible material, typically metal. This change was driven by growing concerns about the fire risks posed by plastic consumer units.
Plastic consumer units, particularly in older properties, were found to be susceptible to melting and catching fire when internal components overheated or failed. Since consumer units are often placed in areas like cupboards or under stairs, where ventilation is limited, the potential for a fire to spread quickly is significant.
The updated regulation ensures that the unit’s enclosure is made from a fire-retardant material, offering greater protection in the event of a fire.
Does This Mean Plastic Consumer Units Fail an EICR?
The short answer is not necessarily.
While plastic consumer units are no longer installed in new builds or during major electrical upgrades, having a plastic consumer unit alone does not automatically result in an EICR failure. The purpose of the EICR is to assess the safety of the entire electrical installation, not just individual components like the consumer unit.
During an EICR, we will check for several key factors, including:
- The condition of the wiring
- Adequacy of earthing and bonding
- Presence and function of circuit breakers and RCDs
- Any potential fire hazards
- Compliance with current regulations
If a plastic consumer unit is in good working order, with no signs of damage, overheating, or other faults, it may pass the EICR. However, if there are signs of degradation, such as scorch marks, loose connections, or evidence of overheating, this could result in the unit being flagged as a safety concern, and a code C2 or C3 might be issued.
EICR Codes: What They Mean
When faults or non-compliant issues are found during an EICR, we will assign a code to the problem. The codes are as follows:
- C1 (Danger present): Immediate danger and requires urgent attention.
- C2 (Potential danger): Something that could become dangerous if left unresolved.
- C3 (Improvement recommended): Not immediately dangerous but not up to current standards.
A plastic consumer unit that shows no immediate danger but does not comply with the latest fire safety regulations may receive a C3 code. This means that while the consumer unit doesn’t meet the current standards, it’s not considered a major safety risk. However, if there are other issues like poor wiring, overheating, or loose connections, the unit may receive a C2, which would necessitate immediate remedial work to pass the EICR.
Should You Upgrade to a Metal Consumer Unit?
If you have an older plastic consumer unit, you might be wondering whether you should proactively replace it with a metal one, even if it hasn’t failed an EICR.
While it’s not mandatory to replace plastic units in all cases, upgrading to a metal consumer unit is advisable for several reasons:
- Enhanced fire safety: Metal units provide better protection against fire, particularly in enclosed spaces like under stairs or in cupboards.
- Future-proofing: While your current consumer unit might pass the EICR, future regulation updates may require stricter compliance. Upgrading now ensures that you’re ahead of any future changes.
- Property value and insurance: Some insurance companies might reduce premiums for properties with upgraded consumer units, and modern electrical safety features may reassure potential home buyers.
If you are based in Bridgend and want to install a new consumer unit, please get in touch.
Final Words
A plastic consumer unit does not automatically mean failure during an EICR, but it’s important to understand the risks and regulations surrounding these units. The key factor in determining whether it will pass is its condition and the overall safety of the electrical installation. If the consumer unit is old, damaged, or shows signs of overheating, it may receive a code that requires replacement or repair to comply with safety standards.
Upgrading to a metal consumer unit is a wise investment in the long-term safety and compliance of your electrical installation. While it may not be required immediately, it offers peace of mind and added protection, ensuring your property meets the latest standards and reducing fire risk.
At Assured Electricians, we are a team of electricians in Bridgend who can carry out thorough EICRs and advise you on the best course of action if any issues are found with your consumer unit or wider electrical system. Contact us today to arrange an inspection and keep your property safe.