We use electricity from the moment we wake up until the moment we go to sleep.

As a result, we often forget how powerful and dangerous it can be. With most of the latest electrical devices claiming to be smart, are householders also being savvy with their safety?

Did you know that two out of three Brits have a crack at electrical DIY in the home instead of using an expert? Did you also know that it is the law to follow electrical regulations?

Home Electrics Checklist

• Get your electrics tested by a trained specialist. A staggering amount of householders have not had their electrics tested for over 15 years, or worse, ever. Electrics should be checked at least every 10 years.
• Don’t attempt DIY unless you are fully competent. Nearly half of all severe electric shocks in the home are as a result of DIY attempts.
• Remember that water and electricity are a shocking combination. The bathroom can be one of the most dangerous rooms in your house.
• Only use electrical gardening equipment outdoors when it is dry.
• Be aware of appliances that can cause electrical explosions.

We take many of our home luxuries for granted, as they aren’t visible. The wiring behind your walls is one such example. Comprising of a complex lethal construction, it should only ever be challenged by a fully qualified registered electrician.

Why Choose a Registered Electrician?

A professionally installed and well-maintained installation can seriously reduce the risk of accident and injury. Knowledge, skills and experience are needed to avoid the dangers that can surround electricity. We recommend electricians who are:

• Regulated by the UK Government.
• Work to the BS7671 safety standard.
• Have their work regularly assessed.
• Are insured, meaning you’re protected.

How to Choose an Electrician

• Be clear about the works you want done and get quotes to compare your options. Don’t always charge for the cheapest quote – if it seems too good a deal to be true, it probably is.
• Check your electrician is registered with a government-approved scheme. This will ensure you get additional protection and means you can check out the individual’s registration.
• Make sure your electrician qualified and request proof. If unwilling to show you evidence of qualification and registration status, head elsewhere.
• Ask for references of previous happy customers. Ask them to explain what works were completed and how satisfied they were with the outcome.
• Check the electrician has public liability insurance of at least £2 million.

Electrical Safety

Please remember that if you have completed any electrical installations at home, it is essential to get these tested by a qualified electrician and obtain a minor works certificate. Failure to do this may render your house insurance invalid and you may have difficulty selling your home.

The government states that electrical fires were the largest cause of fire in UK households in 2017/18 due to the Grenfell Tower fire, accounting for 34% of fire-related fatalities in accidental dwelling fires (Source: FIRE0602)

So… when you’re next tempted to re-wire aspects of your home, consider a lawyer friend of mine who once said: “It’s all fun and games until it’s a crime, illegal negligence and cancelled insurance claims”. Better get a qualified electrician in then!

Find out more about our electrical services services here.