Understanding Part P of the Building Regulations

Part P of the Building Regulations was introduced to ensure that domestic electrical installations are designed and installed to protect people from electrical shock and fire hazards. However, the legislation surrounding what tasks legally require notification to Local Authority Building Control (LABC) can be confusing for homeowners and electricians alike.

The 2013 Regulatory Amendments (England)

In April 2013, the UK Government significantly reduced the scope of notifiable electrical work in England to cut red tape for competent electricians and DIYers. Under the current rules, electrical work is only notifiable if it involves:

• The installation of a completely new circuit (e.g., running a new dedicated cable from the consumer unit to an oven or EV charger).
• The replacement of a Consumer Unit (fuse board).
• Any addition or alteration to existing circuits within a Special Location.

What is a "Special Location"?

A special location poses a significantly higher risk of electric shock due to the presence of water and reduced body resistance. Special locations are strictly defined as:

• Bathrooms and Shower Rooms: Specifically, within Zones 0, 1, and 2. (Note: Work beyond Zone 2 in a large bathroom is generally non-notifiable).
• Swimming Pools and Saunas: Any electrical alteration within a room containing these features.

Important Note: Prior to 2013, kitchens and outdoor gardens were considered special locations. In England, adding a socket to an existing ring main in a kitchen or outside on a patio is now classed as non-notifiable minor work.

The Competent Person Scheme (CPS) Route

If your work is deemed YES (Notifiable), you have two legal routes to ensure compliance:

1. Hire a Registered Electrician: Utilise an electrician registered with a Competent Person Scheme (such as the NICEIC or NAPIT). They are authorised to self-certify their work and will automatically notify Building Control on your behalf, providing you with a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate.
2. The Building Control Route (DIY / Unregistered): If you undertake notifiable work yourself, or hire an unregistered installer, you must pay a fee and notify your local Building Control department before work commences. They will inspect and test the work at various stages. Failing to do this is a criminal offence.