Changes to the Building Regulations should raise standards and improve safety
For all those of us who enjoy the little DIY jobs around the house there is a new law that you need to know about. From January 1st 2005, all significant electrical work in homes across England and Wales will have to be carried out by a registered installer, or approved and certified by the local authority's building control department. These new regulations are designed to reduce the number of deaths, injuries and fires caused by faulty electrical installations and make it harder for cowboy electricians to operate. The type of work exempted from these regulations would include such things as replacing existing accessories, e.g. socket outlets and ceiling roses. Adding lighting points or socket outlets to an existing circuit may also be OK, however, in specified locations such as kitchens, bathrooms and outdoors this work would have to be approved by Building Control or carried out by an electrician registered under a Competent Person Scheme. Bigger jobs, like complete rewiring or adding new circuits to your house will need either a certificate to show they were carried out by an approved installer or a certificate showing that the installation has approval under Part P (Electrical Safety) of the Building Regulations. Anyone failing to get the proper approval for new wiring in their home could face a fine of up to £5,000. Non certified work could also put your household insurance at risk. These regulations will be particularly relevant to people selling their house when the Home Information Pack is introduced in 2006. The pack will be required to include certain certificates and guarantees for work carried out to the property. So think twice before you buy that electric fountain for the garden pond or run an electrical supply to an outbuilding, such work would come under the regulations. If in any doubt always seek professional advice. Consulting an approved electrician before any work is undertaken will ensure peace of mind and could avoid a hefty fine. 27th January 2005
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