Does an EICR Check Sockets & Switches? UK 2025 Safety Guide
🔌 Does an EICR Check Light Switches & Sockets? UK 2025 Safety Breakdown
Light switches and plug sockets are used every day — yet they’re one of the most common places electricians find faults during an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report).
This guide explains what an EICR checks, what problems cause failures, why RCD protection is essential, and what landlords and homeowners should know in 2025.
📚 Contents
- 📌 Quick Answer
- 🔌 What an EICR Checks on Sockets
- 💡 What an EICR Checks on Light Switches
- ❌ Common Socket & Switch Failures
- ⚠️ Do Sockets Need RCD Protection?
- 🏠 Extra Rules for Landlords (2025)
- 🔗 Related EICR Guides
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions
📌 Quick Answer
Yes — an EICR checks every accessible socket and light switch.
The electrician inspects:
- wiring behind switches and sockets
- tightness and condition of terminations
- earthing of metal switches/sockets
- cracks, burns, heat marks, or loose fittings
- RCD protection for socket circuits
- correct polarity
Unsafe sockets or switches can easily lead to C2 or FI codes.
For code meanings, see: EICR Codes Explained (C1, C2, C3, FI) .
🔌 What an EICR Checks on Sockets
An EICR inspects both the external condition and the wiring behind the socket.
The electrician checks:
- earth continuity
- tight connections
- correct polarity
- signs of overheating
- cracks or damaged faceplates
- loose sockets (common fail)
- RCD protection for user-accessible sockets
Sockets are a major part of the fixed wiring — so they are always checked.
💡 What an EICR Checks on Light Switches
Light switches are checked for both external condition and safe internal wiring.
Checks include:
- tightness of terminations
- correct wiring (L & SL)
- burning or heat marks
- presence of CPC/earth (if using metal switch plates)
- secure backbox
- safe accessory mounting
Older DIY-installed switches are a common source of EICR defects.
❌ Common Socket & Switch Failures in EICRs
These are some of the most frequent issues:
- C2: Metal socket with no earth connection
- C2: Exposed live parts behind a loose socket
- FI: Suspected overheating requiring further investigation
- C3: Outdated or cracked faceplates
- C2: No RCD protection for sockets
- C3: Painted-over sockets and switches
- C2: Burnt terminals
For why EICRs fail, see: Why Your EICR Might Fail .
⚠️ Do Sockets Need RCD Protection?
Yes — in most cases.
Modern wiring regulations recommend 30mA RCD protection for almost all socket circuits, especially those used by:
- tenants
- children
- outdoor equipment
- kitchens and appliances
A lack of RCD protection is one of the MOST COMMON C2 codes.
To understand consumer unit checks, see: Does an EICR Check the Consumer Unit? .
🏠 Extra Rules for Landlords (2025)
Landlords must ensure:
- a valid EICR every 5 years
- RCD protection for socket circuits
- safe, undamaged, and securely fixed sockets/switches
- no metal faceplates on un-earthed circuits
Broken or loosely fitted sockets are one of the top hazards listed in rental inspections.
Full landlord rules here: Landlord EICR Requirements .
🔗 Related EICR Guides
- What’s Included in an EICR?
- How Long Does an EICR Take?
- Why EICRs Fail
- How Often Should an EICR Be Done?
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do electricians remove sockets during an EICR?
Yes — a sample of sockets are removed to check internal wiring.
Are switches tested electrically?
They are visually inspected and wiring is checked. They are not electrically tested like appliances.
Can broken sockets fail an EICR?
Yes — broken or loose sockets often receive C2 codes.
Do all sockets need RCD protection?
Recommended for nearly all circuits and required for many modern installations.
Can old light switches still pass the EICR?
Yes — if safe, undamaged, and correctly earthed where required.
Sockets and switches are a major part of every EICR — and a common source of faults. Understanding what is checked helps homeowners and landlords keep their properties safe and compliant in 2025.