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EV Evidence

Ownership · UK

Failed RCD or RCBO test: stop using the chargepoint

Stop using the chargepoint if its documented RCD or RCBO test result did not occur or was unclear. Record only the device label, time and observed outcome, and do not repeat the check. A registered competent electrician must investigate before the chargepoint returns to service.

Electrical Safety First: Can an RCD fail?

Reviewed

Key facts and evidence

For a UK home chargepoint, as reviewed on 12 August 2026, a failed or unclear documented RCD or RCBO user test is Red and ProfessionalOnly. The chargepoint must remain unused when the expected result does not occur, the control is damaged or the outcome is uncertain. The user may preserve observations for a registered competent electrician, but no further action is authorised.

Electrical Safety First: Can an RCD fail?

A failed or unclear documented RCD or RCBO user test requires the home chargepoint to stay unused pending professional investigation.

Why a failed result is Red

The user check has already produced an unexpected or uncertain outcome. That result cannot establish that the protective device is serviceable, so professional investigation takes over.

Information for the electrician

The useful handoff is the device label, time and result already observed. Preserving those facts does not require another operation of the control.

What to do next

The chargepoint remains out of service after any failed or unclear documented RCD or RCBO test.

Immediate action: Leave the chargepoint unused and arrange a registered competent electrician.

  • The documented result did not occur or could not be confirmed.
  • The labelled control is damaged or its response is unclear.
  • The device does not remain in the state described by its supplied instruction.

Do not infer from missing evidence

  • Keep the chargepoint out of service after the failed or unclear result.
  • Leave the protective-device controls alone and do not repeat the user check.

Professional hand-off

  • Give a registered competent electrician the device label, time and exact observed outcome.
  • Wait for professional investigation and clearance before the chargepoint returns to service.

Questions this record can answer

What does the sourced evidence say about why a failed result is Red?

The user check has already produced an unexpected or uncertain outcome. That result cannot establish that the protective device is serviceable, so professional investigation takes over.

What does the sourced evidence say about information for the electrician?

The useful handoff is the device label, time and result already observed. Preserving those facts does not require another operation of the control.

Sources