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If you’re planning electrical work in your home, you may have heard of Part P of the Building Regulations. Many homeowners are unsure what Part P actually means, which jobs are notifiable, and whether they legally need a qualified electrician.

In this guide, we explain Part P in plain English, what it covers, and how it affects domestic electrical work in England.

What Is Part P of the Building Regulations?
Part P is the section of the Building Regulations that relates to electrical safety in residential properties. Its purpose is to reduce the risk of:
-Electric shock
-Electrical fires
-Injury caused by faulty electrical installations
Part P applies to electrical work in:
-Houses
-Flats
-Gardens and outbuildings
-Rental properties
All electrical work must be designed and installed safely, regardless of whether it is notifiable.

Does All Electrical Work Have to Be Notified?
No.
Only certain types of electrical work are classed as “notifiable” under Part P.
Many common jobs carried out by electricians every day do not require Building Control notification, provided the work complies with regulations and is properly tested.

Electrical Work That Is NOT Notifiable Under Part P
The following domestic electrical work is usually non-notifiable in England:
-Replacing sockets and switches
-Adding or moving socket outlets
-Installing new lighting points
-Under-cabinet and ceiling lighting
-Alterations to existing circuits
-Like-for-like replacement of accessories
This applies in most rooms, including kitchens.
Although this work is non-notifiable, it must still comply with Part P and BS 7671 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations) and should be certified.

Electrical Work That IS Notifiable Under Part P
You must notify Building Control if the work includes:
-Installing a new circuit
-Replacing or upgrading a consumer unit
-Electrical work in special locations (such as bathrooms)
-Electrical work associated with notifiable building works (e.g. extensions)
Notification can be handled by:
-A registered Part P electrician (self-certifying), or
-The homeowner via Local Authority Building Control (before work starts)

Why Using a Part P Registered Electrician Matters
A Part P registered electrician can:
-Carry out notifiable work legally
-Self-certify the installation
-Notify Building Control on your behalf
-Issue the correct electrical certificates
This saves time, avoids paperwork, and ensures compliance with the law.

Common Part P Myths
“All electrical work needs Building Control approval.”
❌ False — only specific work is notifiable.
“Kitchens are special locations.”
❌ Not under current regulations in England.
“DIY electrical work is illegal.”
❌ DIY is allowed, but notifiable work must be certified and notified.

What Always Applies (Even for Non-Notifiable Work)
Regardless of notification:
-Work must comply with Part P
-Installations must meet BS 7671
-Testing and certification must be completed
Poor or unsafe work can still be illegal, even if notification isn’t required.

Need Advice on Part P Electrical Work?
If you’re unsure whether your electrical project is notifiable, it’s always best to speak to a qualified electrician before work begins.
📞 Contact us today for clear advice, compliant installations, and full certification from a Part P registered electrician.

Our customers choose us because we’re:
-Trusted and recommended
-Local and responsive
-Qualified and insured

Call today for a free, no-obligation estimate and see why so many homeowners and businesses rate us as their go-to electrician.

31/12/2025

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