Using an electrician that is registered with a government-approved scheme has many benefits, here a list of things you’ll get with a registered electrician.
- They work to the British Standard for electrical safety (BS7671) - To join a government-approved scheme they have to meet strict requirements which take account of qualifications, skills, knowledge and insurance policies.
- Their work is regularly assessed by their scheme operator to ensure their competence. - They will give you a certificate where applicable to show their work has been carried out to the required standard.
- They are permitted to self-certify their work against the building regulations, saving you the need to work with the local building control.
Who are the schemes, and which is best?
No one scheme is better than the other for you as a customer, although each scheme may offer different benefits to your electrician. You can be sure of a high level of service no matter which scheme they’re registered with.
The main and most known electrical competent person scheme is the NICEIC (the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting), although other schemes are available and hold just as much weight. The most notable are NAPIT, Stroma and Elecsa.
If you are unsure if your electrician is registered, visit www.electricalcompetentperson.co.uk