If you are planning to extend or alter the electrical installation in your home, such as providing extra sockets in the kitchen, or adding new
ceilings lights, don't attempt the installation yourself. Ensure you employ a competent electrician. The Government introduced a new law in January 2005, which demands that most electrical work in UK households is only carried out by a 'competent' person.

Up to now, the electrical industry has maintained relatively high safety standards, aided by voluntary controls such as those practiced by NICEIC Approved Contractors. But with an increasing use and variety of electrical equipment and appliances in our homes, it is not surprising that we are
exposed to an increased risk of electric shock and fires caused by faulty electrical installations.
In fact according to Government statistics, every year 5 deaths and over 500 injuries are caused by faulty electrical installations in the home. Added to this, 12,500 fires caused by electrical faults, resulting in 25 deaths and 590 injuries every year, so it is not difficult to see why an electrical safety law needs to be enforced.

The NICEIC carries out regular assessments of its registered electrical contractors to ensure that they are and continue to be 'competent' to carry out electrical installations.

Pete Schwartz Electrical Services is registered as a NICEIC domestic installer and as such, in addition to the issue of Electrical Installation certificates, Building Regulation compliance Certificates are issued for all work which is encompassed by Part P of the Building Regulations.

For more information, visit www.odpm.gov.uk/electricalsafety
or www.niceic.org