The biggest thing in the news for electrical contractors and indeed anyone carrying out electrical work is the launch and implementation of The Third amendment to BS 7671:2008, The IET Wiring Regulations.

From the 1st of July 2015 it is a requirement that ‘all electrical installations designed and periodically inspected comply with the updated regulations’

Now this may not be an earth moving moment for a lot of people however if you are undertaking any works yourself or having electrical works carried out by ANYBODY, make sure it complies with the latest rulings.

The most noticeable part of the new regulations to householders is to be the implementation on January 1st 2016 of Regulation 421.1.201 (PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE CAUSED BY ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT)

In domestic installations the consumer unit [Fuse Box] is to be manufactured from or enclosed within a cabinet constructed of non-combustible material. In most cases this means your fuse box, if replaced, will be made from metal.

Say goodbye to cheap plastic options from the DIY shops.