![]() ![]() Traditionally, cables running along masonry walls would be buried in channels known as ‘chases’ gouged out of the walls. So re-wiring can cause considerable disruption and expense. Rewiring an occupied property is more difficult than in new construction, especially in flats, where cables are often buried within inaccessible floors or ceilings. The ‘second fix’ stage involves fitting all the covers to the switches and sockets, and installing light fittings and ceiling roses etc. The first job normally involves routing all the cables and fixing the backing-boxes in place. Properties dating from the 1970s or earlier that still have their original wiring, will now be overdue for complete renewal. In addition, you should be sent a Building Regulations compliance certificate for all notifiable work by the operator of the registration scheme. Upon completion of the job, it is a legal requirement for the electrician to test the new system and hand over a signed BS 7671 electrical safety certificate. However, in most cases the electrician can self-certify their work as they’re normally registered with a body that gives them the necessary ‘registered installer’ status (also known as ‘competent persons’) such as the ECA (Electrical Contractors Association) or NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting).Ī ‘non-qualified’ person can still carry out notifiable electrical work as long as Building Control are informed – but if you fail to do this and the work is found to be unsafe, it can lead to a hefty fine. This requires a Building Regulations application to be made in advance so the work can be inspected and checked. As long as the job isn’t within a ‘special location’ such as a bathroom or outdoors, you’re also allowed to install additional new light fittings, switches, sockets and even add a single fused spur to an existing circuit (a ‘spur’ is a new cable and socket run as a branch from an existing socket on the ring main).Įverything else, such as installing complete new circuits or changing a fuse board for a consumer unit, is classed as ‘notifiable work’. Minor repairs and maintenance are permitted, as well as ‘like for like’ replacements, such as changing existing sockets, switches and ceiling pendants or even replacing damaged cables. However, you are still allowed to carry out some work yourself without notifying Building Control. All new electrical work must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations which restricts DIY electrical work on grounds of safety.
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