Part P of The Building Regulations for England and Wales was introduced in 2005 by the Government to protect householders and reduce the risk of electric shock. The main principle of the Building Regulations is to ensure that consistent standards are applied to the construction of buildings. This includes structure, fire safety, sound insulation, drainage, ventilation, and electrical safety.
How can I ensure I am adhering to the Part P rule?
Before any electrical installation work can be carried out you must:
- Tell your local authority building control about the work being carried out; OR
- Employ an electrician who is registered with one of the Government-approved Part P schemes
Click here to find a registered electrician anywhere in the UK. In addition to this, you can search for a registered electrical contractor in your area by visiting NICEIC or ELECSA and entering your postcode.
When work needs to be notified to the local building regulation authority
- Installing a new circuit
- Replacing a consumer unit
- Adding to or changing existing circuits in a ‘special location’
Failure to adhere to Part P
In accordance with the law, all homeowners and landlords are responsible for proving all electrical installation work meets the Part P rule, or they will be committing a criminal offence. Failure to provide the correct evidence that electrical work has been conducted in line with the Building Regulations could result in your local building control insisting the work is re-done at your own cost. In addition to this, if you fail to provide the appropriate certification, this could cause issues if and when you come to sell your house.
Contact us
If you would like any more information on the Part P Rule, do not hesitate to get in touch and speak to one of our staff members. Call us on 01206 542285 or email us at sales@bowlinggarrard.co.uk
