Understanding Part P of the Building Regulations UK: Electrical Safety in Your Home

What Is Part P of the Building Regulations?

Part P is a section of the Building Regulations in England and Wales that focuses specifically on electrical safety in domestic properties. Introduced in 2005, its main purpose is to ensure that all electrical work in homes is carried out safely and complies with current safety standards.

Why Is Part P Important?

Electrical faults are a common cause of fires in the home. Part P aims to reduce this risk by setting standards for electrical installations and repairs. It requires:

• Competent workmanship by qualified electricians
  
  

• Notification of certain electrical work to the local authority
  
  

• Compliance with BS 7671 Wiring Regulations (IET Wiring Regulations)
  
  

What Electrical Work Requires Part P Compliance?

Not all electrical work needs to be notified under Part P. The main types of work that do include:

• Installing new electrical circuits
  
  

• Adding new sockets or lighting circuits
  
  

• Work in special locations such as bathrooms, kitchens, gardens, and outdoors
  
  

• Rewiring or replacing consumer units (fuse boxes)
  
  

Minor repairs or maintenance generally do not require notification.

How to Comply with Part P Regulations

1. Use a Registered Electrician

The easiest way to comply is to hire an electrician registered with a Competent Person Scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT. They can self-certify their work and notify Building Control on your behalf.

2. Notify Building Control Yourself

If you choose to use a non-registered electrician or DIY, you must notify your local authority building control department before starting the work. They will inspect the work and issue a certificate if it meets standards.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Failing to comply with Part P can lead to:

• Safety risks such as electrical shocks or fires
  
  

• Problems when selling your property (lack of certification)
  
  

• Possible enforcement action or fines by local authorities
  
  

• Voided home insurance policies
  
  

How to Check Part P Compliance

After completing electrical work that requires notification, you should receive a Part P Certificate or Building Regulations Compliance Certificate. This document proves the work meets legal standards and is essential for:

• Property sales
  
  

• Insurance claims
  
  

• Peace of mind
  
  

Does Part P Apply Outside England and Wales?

• Scotland: Electrical safety is regulated under the Building (Scotland) Regulations and BS 7671, but Part P does not apply. Instead, all electrical work must be notified and inspected by the local authority.
  
  

• Northern Ireland: Similar regulations apply, but Part P is not in force. Electrical work must follow local standards and notification rules.
  
  

Conclusion

Part P of the Building Regulations plays a crucial role in ensuring electrical safety in UK homes. Whether you're a homeowner planning DIY work or hiring a professional electrician, understanding Part P compliance is essential for safe, legal, and reliable electrical installations.

Need a Part P registered electrician? Search for NICEIC or NAPIT certified electricians near you to ensure your electrical work meets UK safety standards.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrical-safety-approved-document-p