What is Part P? Why It Matters When Hiring an Electrician
What is Part P of the Building Regulations?
If you’re planning electrical work in your home or garden in England or Wales, you’ll need to follow Part P of the Building Regulations. These rules exist to make sure all electrical work is safe and compliant with the law.
Part P was introduced to:
Reduce deaths, injuries, and fires caused by faulty electrical installations
Stop unqualified “cowboy” electricians from carrying out dangerous work
In short, Part P protects homeowners by making electrical work safer.
Why You Should Hire a Part P Certified Electrician
When you hire a Part P registered electrician, you’re choosing safety, compliance, and peace of mind. A certified firm:
Knows and handles all the latest rules for you
Is qualified to carry out electrical work to BS 7671, the UK’s national safety standard
Provides a certificate proving the work complies with the law
Other benefits include:
No extra Building Control charges
Access to an insurance-backed guarantee (optional)
A formal complaints procedure if issues arise
Hiring a Part P electrician is not only safer but also more cost-effective in the long run.
How to Check if an Electrician is Part P Registered
Before hiring, always check credentials. Ask to see their Part P registration certificate, which shows the scheme they’re part of and their registration number.
You can then:
Visit the scheme provider’s website
Enter the registration number
Confirm the details match the electrician in front of you
👉 If anything feels suspicious, contact your local authority’s Building Control department before proceeding.
Agreeing the Electrical Work in Advance
When working with a Part P certified electrician, always agree on:
The exact scope of work
The total price (and any potential extras)
Timelines for completion
This avoids surprises and ensures everything is clear from the start.
Certificates and Notifications You Should Receive
After completion, a Part P electrician must provide proper documentation. These certificates protect you now and when you sell your home in the future.
1. BS 7671 Installation Certificate
Confirms the work meets national safety standards. Keep this safe for future reference.
2. Building Regulations Compliance Certificate
Proves the work complies with Building Regulations. Often requested during property sales. Usually arrives within 30 days — if not, follow up with the electrician.
3. Notification to Local Authority Building Control
The electrician’s scheme provider must notify your local authority within 30 days. This record is made public, often checked during property searches when selling your home.
Final Thoughts: Do You Really Need a Part P Electrician?
Yes — if you want to stay compliant, keep your home safe, and avoid expensive problems later. Hiring a Part P registered electrician gives you peace of mind that the job has been done right.
