04/06/2026
⚠️ Dangerous Electrical Installation Discovered During an EICR ⚠️
While carrying out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), we uncovered a serious safety issue within this consumer unit.
The previous electrician had bypassed the RCD to prevent it from tripping. This meant that an important safety device designed to protect against electric shock and help reduce the risk of electrical fires had effectively been taken out of service.
Rather than simply masking the problem, we carried out the necessary testing and fault-finding to identify the root cause. Our investigation revealed a short circuit on the ground floor lighting circuit, which was causing the RCD to operate as intended.
🔧 Works carried out:
1. Completed a full EICR and identified safety concerns.
2. Discovered the RCD had been bypassed.
3. Carried out fault-finding and testing.
4. Located a short circuit on the ground floor lighting circuit.
5. Rectified the fault.
6. Replaced the consumer unit.
7. Fully tested the installation and verified compliance.
This installation highlights why safety devices should never be bypassed. An RCD that trips repeatedly is warning of an underlying fault. Disabling the protection may stop the nuisance tripping, but it leaves the installation and its occupants at risk of electric shock, fire, and potentially fatal consequences.
