According to the Electrical times 2020, 24% of people find themselves injured whilst carrying out DIY and nearly half of severe electric shocks are because of DIY errors (Electric safety first). Furthermore, faults in electric installations cause 11% of electrical fires in the UK (Department for Communities and Local Government, Fire Statistics 2011/12). So, if you are wondering what the safest way to do DIY electrics is, the only answer is don’t and find a qualified and trusted electrician.

When looking for a competent professional we advise the following checks are made to ensure that work is completed safely, compliant, and legally:

1. ARE THEY REGISTERED WITH A CERTIFYING BODY?

Although this isn’t a legal requirement, by choosing a contractor who are registered with a certifying body, you are ensuring that all work completed meets technical & safety standards. We are certified with the NICEIC on their Approved Contractor Scheme and complete annual assessments to ensure that our work is compliant with the latest standards and regulations giving our customers piece of mind that they are in safe hands.

2. ARE THEY A REGISTERED COMPETENT PERSON?

Again, this isn’t a legal requirement however to be registered as an electrical competent person, contractors must meet strict entry requirements, have their work regularly assessed, to ensure their ongoing competence and that it meets the correct standards. Contractors registered on this scheme have been authorised by Government to self-certify that their work is compliant with Building Regulations.

For more information visit- ChoosingAnElectrician (electricalcompetentperson.co.uk)

3. CAN THEY CERTIFY THEIR WORK?

For certain types of electrical work, having a certificate of compliance is not just a recommendation; it’s a legal requirement. All competent contractors should be able to certify their work and it is advised to not use a contractor who isn’t able to produce certification.

To conclude, the safest way to do DIY electrics is to not do DIY electrics!