Fuse box (consumer unit) replacement
Consumer Units, also known as Fuse Boxes or Fuse Boards, play a pivotal role in enhancing the electrical safety of your property.
In the UK, numerous homes still feature outdated fuse boxes. We highly recommend upgrading to a modern consumer unit, which not only enhances the electrical safety of your property but, more significantly, ensures the safety of your family or tenants. A consumer unit will also bring your home in line with the current electrical regulations.
In January 2015, the IEE Wiring Regulations (BS7671) Amendment 3 was published, introducing significant changes related to consumer units, the contemporary counterpart to domestic fuse boxes. The new regulation, 401.1.201, stipulates that in domestic settings, consumer units and similar switchgear must be constructed from non-combustible materials.
We strongly discourage attempting a fuse box upgrade on your own or entrusting it to an unqualified individual. Trust us, it’s simply not worth the potential risks to your family’s safety.
Fuse box replacement FAQs
Do i need to upgrade?
Ensuring your electrical installation is safe and in compliance with current regulations is essential, and it’s not always discernible by visual inspection alone. To confirm the safety of your installation, the most reliable approach is to have an electrical inspection conducted on your property.
However, there are certain indicators that suggest you could benefit from a fuse box upgrade, including:
1. If your fuse box is old and has a wooden back, cast iron switches, or a chaotic mix of both, it should be replaced for your safety.
2. If you intend to rent out your property and your electrical system hasn’t been updated in several years.
3. The absence of residual current devices (RCDs) for wiring within the walls, socket circuits, and outlets used for outdoor electrical equipment.
4. If you’re planning a construction or renovation project, such as installing a new electric shower, Solar PV, building an extension, or converting an attic, you’ll need to install additional wiring and new circuits.
Unsafe electrical systems can jeopardize your tenant’s safety and expose you to significant fines, civil liabilities, or even imprisonment.
To mitigate these risks, consider having a modern Consumer Unit with RCD Protection installed promptly.
Landlords must adhere to statutory regulations, as outlined in the Landlord & Tenant Act 1985 and various other statutory provisions, which mandate that electrical equipment is safe at the commencement of each tenancy and maintained in a secure condition throughout the tenancy.
Non-compliance with the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 and the Consumer Protection Act 1987 constitutes a criminal offense and can result in severe consequences, including:
1. A fine of £5,000 per non-compliant item.
2. Six months of imprisonment.
3. Possible manslaughter charges in the event of fatalities.
4. Tenant-initiated civil damages.
Furthermore, your property insurance may become invalidated.
It’s crucial to be aware that electrical accidents are more common than one might think. Data from the Electrical Safety Council presents alarming statistics:
– About 70 people lose their lives, and 1.2 million suffer injuries in electrical accidents in UK homes each year.
– Approximately 50% of house fires in the UK are caused by electrical faults, equating to roughly 21,000 fires annually.
– Nearly all home electrocutions and 20% of electrical-originated fires could have been averted with RCD protection.
Why do i need RCD's?
A Residual Current Device (RCD) is an indispensable safety device that swiftly cuts off electricity in the event of an electric shock. In contrast, old-style fuse boxes lack RCDs and can take considerably longer to deactivate electricity, highlighting the critical distinction between life and death in electrical safety.
Will I need any other work doing if my electrics are old?
The age of your electrical system does not necessarily entail the need for additional work. However, one of the most common supplementary tasks that might be required is earth bonding. In accordance with UK wiring regulations, earth bonding is a mandatory prerequisite before any electrical work can be initiated.
What are the benefits?
Transitioning to a modern 17th edition RCD-protected fuse board is a substantial step in enhancing the safety of your home, shielding you from the perils of electric shock and electrical fires.
An RCD serves as a life-saving mechanism intended to prevent electric shock incidents. Shockingly, approximately 50% of UK households lack an RCD, needlessly exposing their occupants to electrical accidents.
The professional installation and certification of a 17th edition consumer unit will undoubtedly elevate your electrical safety standards.
How much does it cost?
Our pricing structure is contingent on the size of the consumer unit and whether multiple units are required. On average, the cost for the following will be £495 plus VAT, which covers:
– All necessary materials, featuring a high-quality METAL fuse box (compliant with regulations) equipped with breakers, such as MK.
– Labor executed by one of our accredited NICEIC domestic or contractor installers.
– A completion Installation Certificate, which will be officially recorded with your local council or building regulations.
– A 12-month warranty encompassing all components and workmanship.