Why DIY Electrical Work Is Not A Good Idea

gazza — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 23:00:00 +0000

gazza Fri, 19/04/2013

DIY electrical work seems to be hitting the headlines more often as more households continue to struggle in tough economic times. Trade Skills 4U are highlighting the message that the temptation to carry out DIY electrical in your home is never worth the possible consequences that could arise.
With our homes being our main security keeping our closest family safe, its unfortunate that many householders take chances on the safety of their home electrics.
Every year in the UK unsafe electrical work in the home is the cause of 12,500 house fires, 750 serious injuries and 10 deaths. Despite these frightening statistics, 60% of UK residents are still happy to carry out electrical DIY in their homes.
We're not talking about small jobs either. Much of the electrical work carried out is notifiable under the Part P building regulations and worryingly it seems one in 10 householders are still unaware of Part P even though there continues to be a huge drive to educate home owners on the importance of Part P Electrical works. It comes as no surprise to learn that three quarters of those doing DIY electrical work aren't aware that the work they are carrying out is subject to law under the Part P Building Regulations.
A report carried out by the NICEIC is urging householders to rethink their actions as much of this work is compromising the safety of themselves and their family. DIY work is neither tested for safety not certified which could cause problems in the future if the home is sold. This is in response to the report findings which reveals one in ten home owners have broken planning and building restrictions to carry out billions of pounds worth of home improvements. Two thirds of home owners cited in the report would rather carry out electrical work themselves than employ a qualified electrician.
So what electrical DIY work are householders doing? Over a quarter – 28% - would go so far as to install new garden lighting which carries the additional risk of being installed in damp and wet conditions. The installation of garden lighting should always be carried out by a qualified electrician. Over a third of respondents said they would rewire a socket, three in ten would fit a new light switch. The NICEIC recommends that if a householder is determined to carry out their own DIY electrical work then the work must be notified to the local authority building control department who can inspect the finished job.
Whatever method is used to install home electrics whether by using a qualified electrician or carrying out DIY work, a Part P certificate must be obtained.
If you do really want to re-wire your own home you can get qualified in electrical installation and then notify any major works to building control who will issue your customer a Part P certificate. Our Bronze Course package will bring you right up to speed with the skills in installation, testing, wiring regs and building regs.

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DIY Electrical