Can You Fail an EICR for No RCD Protection? UK 2025 Guide

Can You Fail an EICR for No RCD Protection? UK 2025 Guide

🛑 Can You Fail an EICR for No RCD Protection? UK 2025 Rules Explained

EICR fail for no RCD protection UK 2025

One of the most common questions from homeowners and landlords is whether no RCD protection is an automatic EICR fail.

With many UK homes still using older fuse boxes or non-RCD consumer units, this is an important topic—especially for rentals and property sales.

This guide explains the official rules for 2025, why RCDs matter, what EICR code applies, and when upgrading is strongly recommended.

📚 Contents

⚡ Quick Answer

Yes — you can fail an EICR for no RCD protection, depending on the circuit and the risk involved.

In 2025, the lack of RCD protection usually results in a:

  • C2 (Potentially Dangerous) in most cases
  • C3 (Improvement Recommended) in low-risk situations

A C2 makes the EICR Unsatisfactory.

A C3 is optional and does not fail the EICR.

To understand EICR codes in detail, see: EICR Codes Explained (C1, C2, C3, FI) .

🔍 Why RCD Protection Is Important

Why RCD Protection Is Important

RCDs (Residual Current Devices) reduce the risk of:

  • electric shock
  • electrical fires
  • fatal contact with live parts

BS 7671 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations) requires RCD protection for:

  • socket outlets up to 32A
  • bathroom circuits
  • buried cables in walls
  • lighting circuits (new installations)

📑 What Code Is Given for No RCD Protection?

In 2025, the most common EICR codes for missing RCDs are:

🔴 C2 – Potentially Dangerous

Given when the lack of RCD protection exposes users to shock risk.

🟡 C3 – Improvement Recommended

Given when a circuit is low risk or not used for general-purpose sockets.

A C2 makes the EICR fail. A C3 does not.

❌ Does No RCD Always Mean an EICR Fail?

No — not always.

The outcome depends on the circuit:

Circuit Type Typical Code Fail?
Sockets used by general users C2 Yes
Bathroom circuits C2 Yes
Outdoor sockets C2 Yes
Dedicated circuits (e.g., cooker) C3 No
Non-general use circuits C3 No

For more guidance on EICR failures, see: Why Your EICR Might Fail (And How to Fix It) .

📌 Where RCDs Are Required Under BS 7671

RCD protection is compulsory for:

  • socket outlets ≤ 32A
  • new lighting circuits
  • bathrooms (showers, baths)
  • outdoor equipment
  • buried cables <50mm in walls

Older homes without RCDs are not automatically unsafe, but they often receive C2 codes due to shock risks.

🔧 Should You Upgrade to RCBOs?

In 2025, most electricians recommend RCBO consumer units because they offer:

  • individual protection per circuit
  • improved fault isolation
  • better discrimination
  • no nuisance tripping across the whole house

Upgrading can eliminate several C2 issues and reduce future EICR failures.

💷 How Much Does RCD/RCBO Installation Cost?

Typical UK prices in 2025:

  • Install RCBO (per circuit): £150 – £350
  • Replace full consumer unit: £450 – £900
  • Upgrade bonding: £120 – £250

For full remedial cost breakdowns, see: Remedial Work Cost Guide .

🔗 Related Guides

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is no RCD an automatic fail?

No — but it is usually a C2, which results in failure.

Will adding one RCD fix everything?

No — every relevant circuit needs proper protection.

Is a C3 for no RCD acceptable for landlords?

Only if the circuit is low risk. General-use sockets require RCDs.

Can insurers refuse claims without RCD protection?

Yes — many insurers expect modern RCD protection.

Do older homes legally have to be upgraded?

No — but lack of RCDs often leads to a C2 risk code.

In 2025, missing RCD protection can cause an EICR to fail, depending on the circuit and risk involved. Upgrading to modern RCBO protection significantly increases safety and reduces the chance of an Unsatisfactory report.

Back to blog