What it is
Older consumer units often lack RCD protection or use rewireable fuses, and new units in homes must now have a non-combustible enclosure. An existing plastic unit isn't automatically unsafe, but a replacement brings modern protection to every circuit. Before fitting, we test the existing circuits, because faults hidden by old devices can show up once RCD protection is added — we'll tell you about these first. The work is certified with an Electrical Installation Certificate and notified under Building Regulations.
What's included
- Pre-installation circuit testing
- New consumer unit with RCBO/RCD protection
- EIC and Building Regulations notification
Not included
- Repairs to faulty circuits found during testing (quoted)
Who needs it
- Properties with old fuse boards
- EICRs recommending upgrades
- Homes adding new circuits such as EV chargers
What you'll receive
Electrical Installation Certificate and Building Regulations compliance certificate.
How often
Once.
What the rules say
Each point is labelled so you can tell what's law, what's a British Standard, and what's good practice or comes from your lease, licence or insurer.
- Legal requirementEngland
Notifiable work in homes (Part P)
In England, installing a new circuit, replacing a consumer unit, or adding to or altering circuits in a special location (near a bath, shower, pool or sauna) is notifiable. A registered competent person self-certifies the work and building control is notified within 30 days; otherwise it goes through building control.
Sources: Building Regulations reg 12 (opens external site): Building Regulations 2010, regulation 12 (notifiable electrical work); Building Regulations sch 4 (opens external site): Building Regulations 2010, schedule 4 (special locations); Approved Document P (opens external site): Approved Document P: electrical safety in dwellings
- Technical standardUK (BS 7671)Awaiting professional review
New consumer units in homes must be non-combustible
Since 2016, BS 7671 has required consumer units in domestic premises to have a non-combustible enclosure (for example steel) or sit in a non-combustible cabinet. This applies to new work: an existing plastic unit isn't automatically unsafe, and the inspector judges it on condition and location.
Before your appointment
- The power is off for most of the day. Plan around freezers, medical equipment and home working.
- Clear access to the existing consumer unit and meter.
- Have your latest EICR if you have one: faults on circuits can stop a new unit with RCD protection from working until they're fixed.
If something's found
- Every circuit is tested before connection. Existing faults that would trip the new RCDs are explained and quoted before we go further.
- You receive an Electrical Installation Certificate, and the work is notified to building control under Part P.
What affects the price
- Number of circuits and ways needed
- RCBOs versus RCDs, and surge protection
- Earthing and bonding upgrades
- Faults found on existing circuits
Read more
- BS 7671 Amendment 4 (2026): what it means for your EICR
The new edition of the wiring regulations, the 15 October 2026 changeover, and the changes customers will notice.
- EICR, EIC or Minor Works Certificate: which one do you need?
Three documents that are often confused, what each is for, and which one proves remedial work is done.