Rewiring kitchen

[deano1712]

Hi all,

I am new to the forum - my first post. First name is Mark (43), live near Leeds

I am not in the 'trade' but am faily accomplished on diy matters generally, particulary joinery, plumbing and building work. I design and make all of my own furniture (as a hobby) and have a well appointed workshop in the garage.

I am presently starting work on fitting a new kitchen and intend to do all the work myself, including the wiring. The existing consumer unit needs changing and I am moving all of the appliances so there is a fair bit of wiring to do, moving sockets etc. I think I can pick up all of the techniques and best practice from the forum (or I may buy a book) so I am happy from that perspective.

My concern is getting the work certified. What do I need to do to stay legal? Please bear in mind I am a Yorkshireman and dont want to incur unnecessary expence! I dont want to find a problem in the event of an insurance claim, or when I come to seel the house.

Any suggestions or advice will be appreciated.

Cheers,
Mark

 

[davelx]

You need to nofity LABC BEFORE you start work, and pay the relevant fees. They are then responsible for inspections and testing, probably at first and second fixes.

If they cannot do the testing themselves, they are supposed to sub-contract it at their (not your) expense.

If the re-fit is being done under a building gnotice anyway, this should also cover the electrical work. Again, they are not permitted to charge you extra for testing it.

There's a lot in the Wiki about this, and a couple of recent threads in this forum.

 

[deano1712]

Thanks for that Davelx. I have checked this all out now and phoned the local LABC. More than helpful they were. I just need to send in a Building Notice form and they will send out a lecky to inspect the work at 1st fix and when finished. The lecky will do all the necessary tests for me and then I get the cert. LABC here in Selby charge £220 + vat which apparently is what the lecky charges them.

Whilst it seems a bit of a hurdle it is making me ensure the work I do is all to the relevant standards.