Does a Plastic Consumer Unit Fail an EICR

A consumer unit, often referred to as a fuse box, is the heart of an electrical installation. It distributes power to all the circuits in a property and provides protection through devices such as residual current devices (RCDs) and miniature circuit breakers (MCBs). Over time, the design and materials used for consumer units have evolved. For many years, consumer units made from plastic were standard across the UK. However, with changes to wiring regulations and growing awareness of fire safety, the question often arises: will a plastic consumer unit automatically cause a property to fail an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?

The Purpose of an EICR

An EICR is a formal inspection carried out to assess the safety and condition of an electrical installation. It checks whether the wiring and equipment meet the standards set out in the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671). Landlords are legally required to obtain an EICR for rental properties at least every five years, and homeowners are also advised to have one carried out regularly. The report categorises any issues as C1, C2, or C3. A C1 indicates immediate danger, a C2 identifies potentially dangerous issues that require urgent attention, and a C3 is an advisory recommendation for improvement. Understanding where plastic consumer units fall within this framework is key.

Plastic vs Metal Consumer Units

Since January 2016, the wiring regulations have required that consumer units in domestic premises be made from non-combustible material, typically steel. This change was introduced to reduce the risk of fire spreading from a consumer unit. Metal consumer units are better able to contain flames and heat in the rare event of an electrical fault inside the unit. Plastic units, on the other hand, are more susceptible to melting or igniting under extreme conditions. While this regulatory shift marked a significant step in safety, it does not mean that every plastic consumer unit in existence is unsafe or will automatically lead to a failed inspection.

Will a Plastic Consumer Unit Fail an EICR?

A plastic consumer unit on its own does not guarantee a failed EICR. The condition, installation quality, and surrounding safety measures are what determine the outcome. If a plastic unit is properly installed, securely fixed, and shows no signs of overheating, burning, or damage, it may be recorded on the report but not necessarily classified as a failure. In many cases, an inspector may note it as a C3 observation, meaning it does not meet the latest regulations but is not considered unsafe at the time of testing. However, if evidence of overheating, poor connections, or damage is found, the issue could be escalated to a C2, which would fail the EICR until remedial work is completed.

Examples of Common Findings with Plastic Units

When inspecting plastic consumer units, electricians often look for signs such as scorch marks, loose cabling, missing covers, or inadequate protection against fire spread. If these issues are present, they represent genuine safety risks. For example, a unit installed under a wooden staircase without proper containment could increase the danger in the event of a fire. Such findings would likely lead to a C2 classification. On the other hand, a well-maintained plastic unit installed in a suitable location, free from faults, may only warrant an advisory note for future upgrading.

Implications for Landlords and Homeowners

For landlords, the presence of a plastic consumer unit may raise concerns during an EICR, but it does not always mean immediate replacement is required. If the unit is functioning safely and passes all other inspection checks, the property may still be deemed compliant. However, many landlords choose to upgrade to a metal consumer unit proactively, as it provides better long-term safety and helps avoid future issues when renewing an EICR. Homeowners, too, should consider replacement as an investment in safety, particularly if planning to sell the property, as surveyors and buyers often question the type of consumer unit installed.

Costs of Upgrading to a Metal Consumer Unit

If an EICR highlights concerns with a plastic consumer unit, upgrading may be recommended. The cost of replacing a consumer unit with a modern metal version typically ranges from £400 to £800, depending on the property size and complexity of the installation. While this can seem like a significant expense, it ensures compliance with current wiring regulations and provides peace of mind that the installation meets the highest safety standards.

Professional Guidance and Compliance

Only a qualified and registered electrician should carry out consumer unit replacements or EICRs. This is notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations, meaning certification is legally required. An experienced electrician will not only confirm whether a plastic consumer unit is safe in its current state but also advise on whether replacement is necessary for long-term compliance and safety. Their professional judgment is key, as the classification on the EICR will depend on their assessment of the risks.

Conclusion

A plastic consumer unit does not automatically cause a property to fail an EICR. The determining factors are its condition, installation quality, and safety performance at the time of testing. In many cases, it may be marked as a C3 advisory, which does not require immediate replacement. However, if there are signs of overheating, damage, or non-compliance with safety standards, it can result in a C2 and a failed inspection. While upgrading to a metal consumer unit is not always mandatory, it is highly recommended for future-proofing and ensuring compliance with the latest regulations. For both landlords and homeowners, understanding this distinction helps with planning, budgeting, and making informed decisions about electrical safety.