Why Your Bathroom Lights Failed the EICR: Non-IP Rated Fittings Explained (London Guide)
EICR Certificate
15 October 2025
Why Your Bathroom Lights Failed the EICR
If your latest EICR report flagged a C2 fault for non-IP-rated bathroom lights, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common issues our electricians see in London properties, and it’s one that can be easily fixed once you understand what it means.
In this complete guide, we’ll explain:
- Why non-IP-rated lights fail an EICR inspection
- The difference between IP44, IP65, and other ratings
- How this affects landlords and homeowners
- And most importantly how our team can make your bathroom compliant the same day
⚡ What Does “Non-IP-Rated” Mean?
“IP” stands for Ingress Protection a rating that tells you how well an electrical fitting is protected against water and dust. In bathrooms, where moisture is constant, fittings must have the correct IP rating to prevent shock or fire risk.
For example:
- IP20 = No water protection — not suitable for bathrooms
- IP44 = Protected from splashes — safe for bathroom zones 2 & 3
- IP65/IP67 = Fully sealed — ideal for shower zones and ceilings
If your light fittings don’t meet these standards, your electrician will mark it as C2 – “Potentially Dangerous” on your EICR report.
🚫 Why Non-IP-Rated Bathroom Lights Fail EICR Inspections
During an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), the inspector checks every circuit and fitting for compliance. Bathrooms are considered special locations, meaning extra protection is required.
Your property fails the EICR when:
- The light fitting isn’t IP-rated for its zone (e.g., an IP20 light above the shower).
- Moisture could reach live electrical parts.
- Old, corroded, or cracked fittings expose wiring.
- The circuit isn’t protected by an RCD or bonding is missing.
Any of these issues will trigger a C2 fault, meaning remedial work is legally required before the installation can be considered safe.
🏠 What Happens When You Get a C2 Fault for Bathroom Lights
A C2 fault doesn’t automatically make your property unsafe to occupy, but it does mean you must fix the issue as soon as possible.
Your EICR will not pass until the remedial work is completed. For landlords in London, this is especially serious under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, you’re legally responsible for ensuring the property meets the required safety standards.
Failure to comply can result in:
- Fines of up to £30,000
- Tenants refusing occupancy
- Invalid property insurance
If your report mentions “Non-IP-Rated Bathroom Lights – C2,” contact a qualified electrician immediately.
📞 You can book your remedial work online here and get compliant lighting installed the same day.
💡 What Type of IP Rating Do You Need in Bathrooms?
Bathrooms are divided into zones depending on how close fittings are to water. Here’s a quick guide:
| Zone | Location Example | Required IP Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 0 | Inside the bath or shower | IP67 (fully submersible) |
| Zone 1 | Above the bath or shower up to 2.25m high | IP65 (protected against jets) |
| Zone 2 | 0.6m around bath or basin | IP44 (splash-proof) |
| Outside Zones | Anywhere else in the bathroom | IP20 minimum (but RCD still required) |
If your light is below the correct IP rating for its zone, it’s a fail.
🧰 How to Fix Non-IP-Rated Bathroom Lights
Fixing this issue is straightforward. Our NICEIC-approved electricians handle hundreds of these remedial jobs every month across London.
Here’s how we do it:
- Identify all bathroom lights that are below IP44.
- Safely remove the non-compliant fittings.
- Install new IP-rated lights (usually IP44 or IP65).
- Test the circuit for correct RCD protection.
- Issue a new certificate showing compliance.
🧾 Most bathroom remedial jobs cost between £85–£180, depending on the number of fittings and accessibility.
For an instant quote, visit our EICR Certificate Cost page.
🏙️ Why This Is Common in London Properties
Many older London flats and houses were wired decades ago, before modern electrical regulations came into effect.
Common reasons we find non-IP-rated bathroom lights include:
- Decorative ceiling fittings installed years ago
- DIY renovations without professional testing
- Poorly ventilated bathrooms causing corrosion
- No RCD or supplementary bonding in place
If your property was built before 2005 and hasn’t had a recent EICR certificate, it’s very likely this issue exists.
⚡ Why You Should Never Ignore This Fault
Moisture and electricity are a dangerous combination. Ignoring non-IP-rated fittings can lead to:
- Electric shock risks from condensation
- Burnt wiring inside ceiling roses or junction boxes
- Flickering or short-circuits
- Fire risk from corroded contacts
Replacing the fittings immediately restores safety and ensures your EICR certificate becomes Satisfactory.
🛠️ How London EICR Certificates Can Help
At London EICR Certificates, our team provides:
- Full EICR inspections for landlords and homeowners
- Same-day remedial work for failed EICRs
- Replacement of non-IP-rated lights
- Certified reports valid for 5 years
Whether you’re managing a rental portfolio or upgrading your own flat, we’ll ensure your bathroom lighting is safe and compliant.
👉 Book your EICR remedial work now or call 020 8050 4593 for a quick quote.
🧩 Related Reading
🧠Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Lights Failing EICR Tests
1. Why did my bathroom lights fail the EICR test?
2. What does “Non-IP-Rated Bathroom Light” mean?
3. Is a non-IP-rated bathroom light a C2 or C1 fault?
4. Can I still use my bathroom lights if they’re non-IP rated?
5. What IP rating should my bathroom lights have?
6. Do all LED bathroom lights need to be IP-rated?
7. How much does it cost to fix non-IP-rated bathroom lights in London?
8. Can I fail an EICR for just one non-IP-rated bathroom light?
9. Can I replace the bathroom lights myself to pass the EICR?
10. How can I prevent EICR failures in the future?
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Find answers to common questions about EICR certificates and electrical safety inspections in London. Visit our FAQ page on EICRcertificates.com for more information.

