Electrical work and Building Regulations in England
Understand why some domestic electrical work is notifiable and why competence still matters for work that is not.
Applies to: England only. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland use different arrangements.
Last checked: 3 October 2026
Key points
• Approved Document P covers electrical safety in dwellings in England.
• The current official document explains when notification is required.
• New circuits, consumer-unit replacement and some work around baths or showers can require notification.
• Use a competent electrician and verify registration where a scheme is relied on.
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What Part P is
Approved Document P gives statutory guidance supporting the electrical-safety requirements of the Building Regulations in England. It covers design, installation, inspection, testing and information.
Notifiable work
Whether work is notifiable depends on exactly what is being done. Do not assume a small-looking job is automatically outside the rules, particularly around new circuits, consumer units and locations containing a bath or shower.
Certificates and notification are different things
Electrical testing and certification do not automatically replace Building Regulations notification where notification is required. Ask the electrician which certificate and, where relevant, which compliance notification you should receive.
Official sources
Use these official sources for the current detail that applies to your job, contract or location.
BuildPair provides general information and signposting, not legal, structural, electrical, gas or building-control approval. Requirements can change and the right answer depends on the work, contract, location and facts.
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