HI Electrical

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do i need a rewire?

A properties age does not determine when a rewire is needed, many other factors can determine this such as which materials were used at the time and how your property is looked after.
A periodic inspection is recommended to be carried out on owner-occupied properties every 10 years and every five years in rented. This is to determine whether the electrics are safe and in appropriate working conditions.
If you notice anything unusual get a registered electrician to check your electrics as soon as possible.

what electrical work can i do myself?

Before making the decision to undertake any electrical work, you should consider the following information:

1. Will the work be covered by the Building Regulations? Partial and full rewires are substantial work and are notifiable under the regulations so these will need to be signed off by your local authority if you do decide not to use a registered contractor.

2. Even if the work is minor, for example replacing a socket, you need to consider that whilst this is not notifiable under the Building Regulations if the work takes place in a kitchen, bathroom or garden these areas are considered high risk due to the load demands of appliances and close proximity to water.

It is always recommended to contact a reputable local registered electrician who can advise you on the best course of action.

What is part p?

Part P is a vital component of the Building Regulations which ensures that regular standards are met across the board regarding the construction of buildings. This includes the buildings structure, fire safety, sound insulation, drainage, ventilation and electrical safety.
Part P requirement is:

“Reasonable provision shall be made in the design and installation of electrical installations in
order to protect persons operating, maintaining or altering the installations from fire or injury.”

Part P of the Building Regulations applies to the following: Fixed electrical installations in dwellings (including gardens and shared amenities in blocks of flats, and any building that shares its electricity supply with a dwelling). Part P requires that such work needs to be inspected by the local authority Building Control department to ensure it complies with the Building Regulations.

An easy way to ensure requirements are met is to use a contractor who is registered with a competent person scheme such as NICEIC. These schemes were set up with approval from the government in order assess contractors to a common standard. Contractors who are
registered with such a scheme are authorised to self-certify their work as being compliant with Building Regulations.