A new set of regulations, which control electrical safety in dwellings, came into force on the 1 January 2005. These new electrical safety regulations require anyone carrying out electrical work in dwellings to ensure that it is designed, installed, inspected and tested in order to protect persons from fire or injury. Information must also be provided that will enable anyone to operate, maintain and alter an electrical installation safely.

This means that any person wishing to alter, renew or install new electrical wiring systems in a new dwelling, an existing dwelling or an extension to a dwelling must either have the work carried out by a competent person registered in a self certification scheme approved by the government or apply to the local Council for approval of the work.

The regulations apply to electrical installations to both the inside and outside of a dwelling. Most electrical work is covered, with exceptions only for minor works, such as repairs or replacements for existing fittings, and installation of lighting points or sockets on existing circuits, (except in a kitchen, bathroom or outdoors).

Anyone seeking building regulations approval for work which is covered by the regulations will need to indicate whether or not a competent person registered in a self-certification scheme approved by the government will do the electrical work. If such a person is not used the Council has jurisdiction over the work and the following will apply.

Notes required on full plans applications:

• All electrical work required to meet the requirements of Part P (Electrical Safety) will be designed, installed, inspected and tested by a person competent to do so.
• Prior to completion, the Council must be satisfied that Part P has been complied with. This may require an appropriate BS 7671 electrical installation certificate to be issued for the work by a person competent to do so.

During the progress of the works (Full Plans & Building Notices):

• The Building Control Surveyor must be informed of the competency of the person who is to carry out the electrical work.
• Arrangements must be made with the Building Control Surveyor for an inspection of the electrical installation before it is covered over.
• A copy of an appropriate BS 7671 certificate together with a schedule of work carried out and signed by a competent person should be provided at the completion of the project.

If you are not sure about what your new obligations are with regard to electrical safety, please consult our Electrical Safety leaflet, or contact the Building Control Section for advice.
 

Contact Details

South Derbyshire District Council
Building Control Services
Civic Offices
Civic Way
Swadlincote
Derbyshire
DE11 0AH

Tel: 01283 228706
Fax: 01283 595850
Online: general online enquiry form
E-mail: building.control@south-derbys.gov.uk

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