UK EICR – Are RCDs always required for a satisfactory report?

OfficeManager · Aug 11, 2025

Hi all,

I’m looking for some clarification on RCD requirements regarding EICR reports in the UK.
This is for a standard office that was built in 2007 and is used by IT workers.

We've had an EICR review and been told that we need RCDs for all circuits apart from those locked in the server room.

My questions are:

1. Can we just complete a risk assessment, without installing RCDs, and still pass the EICR?
2. If we need to install RCDs, do we need to install them on all circuits?
3. Are there any scenarios where we don't need RCDs to pass the EICR?

I’d really appreciate the views of electricians who carry out EICRs regularly.

Thanks in advance!

westward10 · Aug 11, 2025

It would depend on who does the EICR and their opinion of RCDs for general socket outlets. Assuming fault protection is maintained without them and the socket outlets are not likely to supply equipment for use outside it is generally considered a Code 3 for 30ma (additional) RCD protection.

OfficeManager · Aug 11, 2025

westward10 said:
It would depend on who does the EICR and their opinion of RCDs for general socket outlets. Assuming fault protection is maintained without them and the socket outlets are not likely to supply equipment for use outside it is generally considered a Code 3 for 30ma (additional) RCD protection.

Thank you for your advice and for confirming what I thought.
I have been reading the Electrical Safety First best practice guide 4 and this suggests it is a C3 for our scenario as well.
I will discuss it further with the electrician.

westward10 · Aug 11, 2025

It would be well worth discussing as electricians often put a Code 2 against this then you are stuck with it.

HappyHippyDad · Aug 12, 2025

I personally err towards C2 when dealing with lack of 30ma RCD protection. Not in every case, but more often than not.

Also, if you are registered with Napit, they have clear expectations of what codes should be given. I realise we don't have to agree with them, or even adhere to them, but if you are registered with Napit you do find yourself moving towards the 'codebreaker' suggestions. C2 for cables in zones, in a wall <50mm, no 30mA RCD protection.
I do actually agree with this one.
DIY'ers are always drilling through cables directly above or below sockets, to hang their new shelves.

EddieB · Aug 18, 2025

I thought if IT equipment was the primary user of sockets in an office and if unwanted tripping could cause damage and or loss of data and are labeled and risk assessed as use for the use of that particular equipment only then RCD coverage can be omitted?