The importance of obtaining and keeping certificates for when the electrics have been changed

16/07/2011

By Sandra Manning, Senior Associate in Residential Conveyancing. First published in the Courier in July 2011.

The Institute for Electrical Engineers recommends safety tests for domestic properties are undertaken every 5 years, or upon change of ownership. It is recommended that all electrical checks should be carried out by an electrician  registered with the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installers and Contractors (NICEIC) who have the ability to thoroughly check a circuit for safety and will be able to issue a Building Regulations Certificate of Compliance confirming that the electrics comply with the Council's current regulations. 

For a new electrical installation, or where an original installation has been altered or added to and new circuits have been introduced, an Electrical Installation Certificate should be obtained from your qualified electrician undertaking the works.  Where the works to the electrics are minor e.g. they do not involve the introduction of new circuits, but might include the addition of a socket-outlet or lighting point to an existing circuit, or the relocation or replacement of a light switch, a Minor Works Certificate should be obtained from your electrician.  Such Certificates should be retained as the solicitor acting for a purchaser of your property will request sight of them as evidence that the electrical works complied with the Council's regulations.

If the electrical work was not carried out by a qualified electrician, you may need to have the installation checked by a qualified electrician who will be able to issue a Certificate. 

If you are a Landlord, you should have the electrics of the rental property regularly inspected and obtain a Periodic Inspection Report from your electrician, which declares the electrical installation safe.  This will not only ensure the safety of your tenants, but may also be used to show that you have taken all reasonable steps to ensure their safety.  It is also recommended that the electrical appliances at the property are checked annually.

A list of NICEIC registered electricians in the UK can be found on the NICEIC's website at www.niceic.com