Electrical Safety In The Home

Since the 1st January 2005 people carrying out electrical work in homes and gardens will have to follow the new safety rules in the Building Regulations.

These rules will reduce the number of deaths, injuries and fires caused by faulty electrical installations. They will also make it harder for cowboy builders to leave electrical installations in an unsafe condition.

Anybody considering electrical work in the home will be affected by the changes, including DIY. If you are carrying out major works, like adding a new circuit it will be necessary to inform the Building Consultancy or use an electrician who is qualified to carry out the works and take care of the new rules for you.

What will happen if you do not follow the Building Regulations

• The electrical installation might not be safe.
• You will have no record of the work done.
• You may have difficulty selling your home if you do not have the right electrical safety certificates.
• You may be liable to a fine and be required to put right faulty work.

Why should I use an Installer who is registered with a Competent Persons Scheme?

• Members of schemes can deal with all the new rules for you.
• Members are qualified to carry out electrical work.
• Members will give you a certificate to confirm their work follows the new rules.
• You will not have to pay Building Control charges.
• You will have the option of taking out an insurance backed guarantee or the work.
• You will have access to a formal complaints procedure if you are not happy with the work.

How can I find an installer registered with a Competent Person Scheme in my area or check that my chosen installer is with a scheme?

Visit www.competentperson.co.uk and enter your postcode or the name of the installer in the relevant search box, or alternatively contact one of the competent person schemes given below:

BRE Certification Ltd
Phone: 0870 609 6093
Website: www.partp.co.uk

British Standards Institution (BSI)
Phone: 08450 765610
Website: www.kitemark.com

ELECSA Limited
Phone: 08456 349043
Website: www.elecsa.co.uk

NAPIT Certification Limited
Phone: 0870 444 1392
Website: www.napit.org.uk

NICEIC Certification
Services Ltd
Phone: 0870 13 0382
Website: www.niceic.com

If you are not using an electrician registered under a Competent Persons Scheme it may be necessary to make an application to Wychavon Building Consultancy.

Do I need to make an application?

The table indicates where an application for Building Regulations is required. To view the table click here.  (28.92 KB)

Charges

A charge will be made for the application based upon the estimated cost of the works. An application form and charges guidance sheet can be downloaded.