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Electrical Work and UK Legislation

If you are thinking of hiring a handyman to do some minor electrical repair, keep in mind that any work on permanent electrical systems must now conform with the UK standard BS 7671:2008, which has been in effect since January 2005.  All work done in or around a home is subject to these guidelines. Unless carried out by an electrician registered with an approved competent person self-certification programme, all reportable electrical work, including new installations, re-wires, and the installation of new circuits, must be submitted to a local building control body for permission.

Additions to existing circuits in kitchens, baths, outdoors, and other unique areas are examples of reportable work. (Special locations are practically any rooms that are likely to be exposed to water or damp). If the work is small and does not involve entire new circuits, such as changing socket-outlets, switches, and light fittings, and it is not in a designated area such as a bathroom, it does not require Building Regulations permission.

So, as long as new circuits/wiring are not necessary and the project is not in a bathroom or other particular area, a handyman may undertake simple electrical work like repairing sockets and switches. If you have any doubts, consult a certified electrician who is registered as a qualified individual. Any electrical work must, in any circumstances, adhere to the IEE requirements BS7671.

If a socket or switch has to be changed, be sure the handyman follows the manufacturer's directions to the fullest. Because the installation of a new socket is not notifiable, it is not essential to hire a skilled electrician or notify your local authority building control, unless it is in a unique place. However, whether you hire a handyman or do it yourself, the socket must be installed in line with local building codes. If in doubt, seek the advice of a qualified individual who is a member of an electrical certification program. Even if replacing a socket is a simple task, you must confirm that the handyman is qualified for the work. Never put your electrical safety at danger.

Electrical Safety for any Electrical Work

Before doing any form of electrical repair, turn off the main power at the consumer unit and isolate the circuit by removing the circuit fuse and placing it in your pocket to prevent it from being accidentally replaced by another person. Always leave a note on the consumer unit explaining that you are working on the circuit for extra security. After that, use a voltage tester/meter to make sure the circuit you are working on is not active. If possible, check with past customers who have had comparable work done for references to ensure that any handyman you engage is aware of the essential safety regulations while dealing with electricity. Any non-notifiable electrical task, such as replacing a single power socket with a conventional white double socket, installing a new light switch, changing a fluorescent tube, or installing light fittings and fixtures using existing wiring, should be readily accomplished by a decent, skilled handyman.