Does a Plastic Consumer Unit Fail an EICR

When an Electrical Installation Condition Report, often referred to as an EICR, is carried out in a home or rented property, one of the key areas examined is the consumer unit. This box, sometimes still called a fuse box, is the heart of the electrical system. It distributes power safely to all the circuits in the property and contains protective devices designed to reduce the risk of fire or electric shock. Many homeowners and landlords now wonder whether an older plastic consumer unit will automatically fail an EICR, particularly given the changes to wiring regulations in recent years.

The Role of an EICR

An EICR is a formal inspection of the fixed wiring in a property. It is carried out by a qualified electrician and provides a written record of the condition of the installation. During the test, the electrician will look for signs of wear, damage, outdated components, and any issues that present a safety risk. The outcome is recorded using specific codes, which indicate whether the installation is satisfactory or requires remedial action. Landlords in England are legally required to obtain an EICR at least every five years, and homeowners are advised to arrange one periodically for peace of mind.

Plastic vs Metal Consumer Units

Traditionally, consumer units were made of plastic. They provided effective housing for fuses and circuit breakers, but in certain situations, particularly where overheating occurred, there was a risk that the plastic casing could catch fire and contribute to the spread of flames. In 2015, wiring regulations were updated to state that consumer units in domestic premises should be made from non combustible materials. Since then, metal consumer units have become the standard for new installations. This led to a common assumption that any property with a plastic consumer unit would automatically fail an EICR, but the reality is more nuanced.

Do Plastic Consumer Units Fail Automatically?

A plastic consumer unit does not automatically result in a failed EICR. The presence of a plastic casing on its own is not enough for the report to be marked as unsatisfactory. Instead, the electrician will consider the overall condition of the unit, how it has been installed, and whether it presents any genuine safety risks. For example, if the plastic consumer unit is located under a wooden staircase or in a cupboard containing combustible materials, it may be recorded with a code that requires improvement. If it shows signs of heat damage, burning, or poor workmanship, it is much more likely to be flagged as a serious concern.

How It Is Classified in an EICR

EICR reports use a system of codes to describe observations. A plastic consumer unit in good condition, securely installed, and not posing an obvious risk may simply be noted without affecting the overall pass of the report. If the location or condition of the unit is judged to increase the risk of fire, the electrician may record it as a C3 code, meaning improvement is recommended but not legally required for a satisfactory outcome. If there are more significant concerns, such as overheating, exposed live parts, or evidence of poor installation, it may be coded as C2, which requires urgent remedial work and would result in an unsatisfactory report.

Practical Considerations for Homeowners and Landlords

Although a plastic consumer unit may not always cause a failed EICR, it is important to consider the benefits of upgrading to a metal unit. Metal consumer units are more robust, reduce the risk of fire spreading, and meet the latest wiring regulations. For landlords, fitting a modern consumer unit also demonstrates due diligence in maintaining a safe property, which can help reduce disputes or issues during inspections. For homeowners, it provides reassurance that the electrical system is up to current safety standards and is more future proof if new circuits are ever added.

Legal Responsibilities and Safety Standards

Part P of the Building Regulations states that electrical work in dwellings must be carried out safely and comply with national standards. While there is no law requiring homeowners to replace a plastic consumer unit immediately, landlords are under stricter obligations to ensure their installations meet safety expectations. If an EICR identifies concerns linked to a plastic consumer unit, remedial work may be needed to maintain compliance. Failing to act could leave a landlord open to enforcement action, fines, or difficulties with insurance claims.

When Replacement Becomes Necessary

A plastic consumer unit in good working order may not trigger a failed report, but it is still wise to plan for a replacement. If the unit has damaged covers, lacks RCD protection, or is installed in a high-risk location, replacement with a metal consumer unit is strongly recommended. An upgrade not only satisfies the latest wiring regulations but also improves safety for the long term.

Conclusion

A plastic consumer unit does not automatically fail an EICR. The decision depends on its condition, location, and associated risks. While many plastic units remain serviceable, they may be coded for improvement or, in some cases, identified as requiring urgent attention. For landlords and safety conscious homeowners, upgrading to a metal consumer unit is often the most sensible course of action. This ensures compliance with current standards and provides peace of mind that the property’s electrics are properly protected.