Dan was really helpful and explained the problem well.
Electrical work is an essential aspect of our daily lives, and it's crucial to ensure that it is carried out safely and by qualified professionals. Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions surrounding electrical work in the United Kingdom that can lead to confusion and potential risks. In this blog, we aim to address these misconceptions and shed light on the importance of hiring qualified electricians for electrical installations and repairs.
This week I was tasked with carrying out a electrical installation condition report (EICR) for a customer that was buying a property in Kingsteignton, one of the question they had asked was can the home owner touch the electrics? So I wanted to write a blog to give you some more information.
Misconception 1: Anyone can perform electrical work
One common misconception is that anyone can carry out electrical work without proper training or qualifications. However, electrical work requires specialised knowledge and expertise. In the United Kingdom, electrical installations and repairs must be conducted by qualified and registered electricians. These professionals have undergone rigorous training programs, apprenticeships, and assessments to ensure they possess the necessary skills to handle electrical systems safely.
Misconception 2: All electricians are the same
Another misconception is that all electricians have the same level of skill and expertise. In reality, electricians differ in their qualifications and experience. When hiring an electrician for a specific task, it's important to choose someone who is qualified and registered with recognises professional bodies, such as the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) or The National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers (Napit). This ensures that the electrician has the necessary training and competence to carry out the job correctly and safely. AM Electrics Devon are proudly registered with NAPIT.
Misconception 3: DIY electrical work is safe
Many individuals believe that they can handle electrical work themselves, especially with the availability of online tutorials. However, DIY electrical work can be extremely dangerous and is often illegal. In the United Kingdom, only minor electrical repairs or replacements, such as changing a light bulb or a fuse, can be carried out by non-professionals. For any other electrical work, it is essential to hire a qualified electrician who has the expertise to assess, repair, or install electrical systems safely and effectively.
Misconception 4: Safety checks and inspections are unnecessary
Regular safety checks and inspections for electrical installations are often underestimated or overlooked. Electrical systems can deteriorate over time, leading to potential hazards such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or outdated equipment. Qualified electricians are trained to conduct thorough inspections and identify potential risks. These inspections ensure compliance with safety regulations and help maintain the overall safety of your property. Neglecting safety checks and inspections can put you at risk of electrical accidents or even invalidate your insurance coverage. If you are unsure when the last EICR was performed at your Kingsteignton home, AM Electrics will be happy to help.
Misconception 5: Non-professionals can perform repairs highlighted in an Electrical Installation
Condition Report (EICR)
During an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), an electrician examines the electrical installation in a property and highlights any defects or potential issues. It is not recommended for non-professionals to attempt repairs based on the findings of an EICR. The identified issues may require specific expertise, knowledge, and equipment to rectify safely. Hiring a qualified electrician is crucial to ensure that the necessary repairs or improvements are carried out correctly and in compliance with safety standards.
Understanding the common misconceptions about electrical work in England is essential for promoting safety and compliance. Electrical work should only be conducted by qualified and registered electricians to guarantee the well-being of individuals and the integrity of properties. By debunking these misconceptions, we hope to emphasise the significance of hiring professionals and maintaining safe electrical systems. Remember, electrical work is not something to be taken lightly, and the expertise of qualified electricians is indispensable.
If you require a qualified, registered electrician to carry out any electrical work at you Kingsteignton home, call AM Electrics Devon. Our friendly, professional electricians will be happy to help.
