Hiring a Electrician:
what to check

Electrical work in homes in England is covered by Part P of the Building Regulations. Much of it, such as new circuits, consumer unit changes and work in bathrooms, must either be done by an electrician registered with a competent person scheme (such as NICEIC or NAPIT) or be signed off by building control. You can check an electrician's registration yourself online in a couple of minutes.

Landlords in England must have an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) at least every five years. Homeowners buying an older property often get one too; it's the quickest way to find out whether wiring needs attention before it becomes a problem.

If you're getting tripping circuits, scorch marks, buzzing sockets or a burning smell, switch off at the consumer unit and get it looked at. Don't keep resetting it.

• Check their registration on the NICEIC or NAPIT websites (or the government's Competent Person Register).
• Notifiable work should come with a Building Regulations compliance certificate.
• Ask for an Electrical Installation Certificate or Minor Works Certificate for the job.
• Ask whether they carry public liability insurance.
• For EICRs, ask what's included and how any remedial work is priced.

Guide ranges only. Prices vary with the job, access and time of day. Always get a quote before work starts.

Do I need a registered electrician?

For notifiable work (new circuits, consumer units, bathrooms) you need either a competent-person-scheme electrician or building control sign-off. You can check registration online.

How often does a rental property need an EICR?

In England, at least every five years, and a copy must be given to tenants.

How much does an electrician cost in your area?

Typical UK rates are around £45–£70 an hour. Always ask for a quote before work starts.