Consumer - Frequently Asked Questions

Can I carry out electrical work in my home?

Yes, but it must comply with the requirements of Part P of the Building Regulations and you may need to notify your local authority Building Control department before starting.

What about electrical work in gardens?

Part P also applies to electrical work carried out outside your home, for example, it applies to fixed lighting and pond pumps in gardens, and to electrical installations in outbuildings such as sheds, detached garages and greenhouses

How can I find out what the requirements are?

These are set out in detail in Approved Document P.

How do I know whether or not I should notify my local authority about electrical work I am planning to carry out?

You can refer to the Government's consumer pamphlet and if in doubt contact your local authority Building Control department.

Can I employ anybody else, for example, an electrician to carry out electrical work in my home?

Yes, but Part P still applies to the electrician and,unless the electrician is registered with an approved self-certification scheme or the work is of a minor character, you will still need to make sure that your local authority Building Control department is notified before the work starts.

How do I find a Part P Competent Person?

The five schemes approved by the Government all maintain a public search facility that you can use to find a Competent Person. Ckick here to search for a Competent Person.

What are the consequences of not complying with the new rules?

It is a criminal offence not to comply with the Building Regulations.  Moreover, a local authority may serve an enforcement notice requiring you to remove the work or to put it right. You should also bear in mind that the local authority may enter the details of the offending work in the local land charges register. This could then come to light when you attempt to sell your property.