Sam English asks this question, which concerns student accommodation, a found borrowed neutral, whether complete rectification is necessary, and the required EICR code. It has been answered by SELECT (Theme – Regulations & Legislation):
Question: I've come a cross a borrowed neutral during carrying out an electrical installation condition report (EICR). The property is a large house having student accommodation, and it is subject to HMO licensing.
The lighting is spread over two typical circuits: basement and ground floor, plus first floor and second floor. Emergency lighting is spread throughout property.
Does the borrowed neutral need to be rectified completely, or can we double up into one circuit breaker and hence a single neutral termination, and then report the condition as a Code 3?
Answer: Borrowed neutrals can be a problem particularly when a split board configuration is being installed using RCDs. If this is identified during a periodic inspection, it may not be something that is in need of immediate attention.
However, the condition should be identified by a C3 coding on the EICR, and the client should be advised of the benefits of rectifying the problem.
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