What Are Part P Building Regulations?

Part P is the section of Building Regulations in England and Wales that covers electrical safety in dwellings. Introduced in 2005, it requires certain electrical work to be either:

Carried out by a registered competent person (like a registered competent electrician), or
Notified to your local Building Control before work begins

Why Do Part P Regulations Exist?

Part P was introduced after research showed that faulty electrical installations caused a significant number of house fires and electrocution deaths. The regulations aim to:

Reduce electrical fires and shock risks
Ensure electrical work meets safety standards
Protect homeowners from dangerous DIY electrical work

What Work Is Notifiable Under Part P?

Always Notifiable (Full Notification)

Installing a new circuit
Adding or replacing a consumer unit
Any work in kitchens within 3 metres of a sink
Any work in bathrooms or shower rooms
Work in swimming pool areas
Installing an electric vehicle charger

Usually Notifiable (May Require Notification)

Replacing a socket or switch in a kitchen or bathroom
Installing outdoor electrical equipment
Installing electrical heating systems

Non-Notifiable Work

Replacing like-for-like sockets, switches, or light fittings
Repairs to existing circuits
Installing a TV aerial or satellite dish
Low voltage work (under 50V AC)

How to Comply With Part P

Option 1: Use a Registered Electrician (Recommended)

Approved competent person schemes register competent electricians who can self-certify their work. This means:

No Building Control notification required
You receive an Electrical Installation Certificate
Work is automatically certified as compliant
Registration with your local authority

Option 2: Notify Building Control

If you use a non-registered electrician or do DIY notifiable work, you must:

Submit a Building Notice before starting work
Pay Building Control fees (typically £200-£400)
Have the work inspected and tested
Obtain a completion certificate

What Happens If You Don't Comply?

Failure to comply with Part P can result in:

Fines of up to £5,000
Insurance issues - your home insurance may be invalidated
Selling difficulties - buyers and solicitors check for certificates
Having to undo and redo work at your expense
Mortgage problems - lenders may refuse or withdraw offers

Electrical Certificates You Should Have

Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)

Issued for new installations and major alterations. Valid permanently but the installation should be re-tested every 10 years for homes.

Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate

For smaller jobs like adding a socket to an existing circuit.

Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

A periodic inspection report showing the condition of your electrical installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do any electrical work myself?

Yes, but only non-notifiable work. Anything beyond changing a light fitting or socket face should be done by a qualified electrician.

How do I check if an electrician is registered?

Check their registration on the relevant approved scheme website. At Grant's Electrical Solutions, we're CHAS approved - you can verify this online.

Do I need Part P compliance for a rental property?

Yes. Landlords have additional responsibilities and must ensure electrical installations are safe and certified.

Need Part P compliant electrical work in Devon? Grant's Electrical Solutions is CHAS approved. Call 01626 374 059 for certified work.

Part P Building Regulations Explained: What Homeowners Need to Know