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Why should I have my electrical installation
tested?
There are around 9,000* fires in homes every year, which
are directly linked to faulty electrical wiring. Having
your installation tested proves that the installation
is safe and gives you peace of mind.
* Figures based on the national statistics available
from ODPM
Why do I require an electrical safety certificate
when it is not law to have one?
From 2007 the homebuyers pack will come into force,
which will require a current electrical certificate.
If you are thinking of selling your house you will not
be able to do so with out an electrical certificate.
How long is the certificate valid for?
Typically the certificates are valid for a maximum of
10 years. However it is up to the tester too specify
an amount of time based on the test results, experience
and judgement.
Why is the government bringing in new laws
(Part P)?
The current regulations of the IEE (Institution of Electrical
Engineers) wiring regulations BS 7671 was issued in
1991. It states that every electrical system shall be
tested before being brought into service and have an
electrical safety certificate issued. It is only since
the Part P law has come in that the current regulations
are starting to be implemented correctly.
How does this relate to the electrical safety
certificate?
The electrical safety certificate ensures that the fixed
electrical wiring is in a satisfactory state of repair
and is able to remain in service.
What happens if I do not have one?
Your life and property could be at risk.
Can this affect my insurance?
Yes! Some insurance companies will not offer cover until
a safety electrical certificate has been issued. Increasingly
insurance companies are becoming aware of the electrical
regulations and are adjusting their policies to suit.
How can I avoid these problems?
Get your property tested.
What is a special location
Special locations are the bathroom, kitchen, garden,
pool, spa & sauna etc.
Can I get a builder to do the works and then
get a registered electrician to issue the test certificates
afterwards?
No! The individual or company that carries out the works
is responsible for the design, installation, the testing
and issuing of any certificates. Any electrician issuing
an installation certificate for work that has not been
completed by him is breaking the law as stipulated in
‘Part P’
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