Is it legal to fit or install your own fuse box/ fuse board?
In the UK, what used to be called a fuse box is now known as a consumer unit.
If you're developing a property, or DIYing your home, you may be tempted to save money by installing your own consumer unit, sometimes called a fuse box or fuse board by older members of the public.
Is it legal to fit or install your own fuse box?
Yes, it's illegal for anyone who isn't a fully qualified electrician to install a fuse box or consumer unit. You will need an Electrical Installation Certificate to prove it was installed properly.
A fuse box, consumer unit or fuse board may look simple to replace and an easy way to save money. However, electricians will tell you different. As well as it being illegal to do this, there are hidden dangers. Jason Gooding of JG Electrical Force says that consumer units are more complicated than home owners realise. Depending on their age, they may not be able to handle all of the power the house consumes, there could be poor or loose connections and the wiring could be flawed, or the bonding in need of replacing. This is common in older properties.
Gooding reminds us that electricity is dangerous, and whilst changing a consumer unit might seem simple enough its not. Even a great electrician can take a day to replace a consumer unit, longer if there are issues.
Your fuse board or consumer unit should 17th Compliant / 17th Edition Compliant. Your electrician should be a member of NICEIC and will give you an Electrical Installation Certificate, which is a legal requirement
Additional info
If you are trying to sell a property and you don't have the correct Electrical Installation Certificates you will find that you may not get the best offer for your property. Your electrician should also be Part P compliant.
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