Tuesday, 25 February 2014

Spring DIY – know your limits

Well known retailers are now busily plugging their Spring wares in the hope that it will spark off a busy season of DIY. So long as the sun does actually come out then with it will come householders in their droves all of whom have one thing on their minds – DIY.

Whatever project you have planned for this year whether it's a new front door or some new decking you need to know where you stand when it comes to electrical work. Unfortunately electricians are getting called out to increasing numbers of electrical DIY jobs that have gone wrong and the resulting work that needs to be carried out often costs more than using a qualified and registered electrician in the first place.

Electrical DIY that often goes wrong

A recent survey carried out by the electrical training provider Trade Skills 4 U revealed that electricians most commonly get calls to fix DIY lighting that has gone wrong. On the face of it, replacing a light fitting might seem straightforward, however householders often get into difficulties when faced with cables they are not sure what to do with.

Problems with wiring are also common. Our electricians in South East London often get called to homes where cables have been drilled through accidentally or house wiring has been tampered with in an effort to resolve an electrical problem.

Know what electrical work you can and cannot do

When you are planning your DIY projects this year, it is important you know when you need to consult an electrician in South London so that you do not endanger you and your family or break the law. Remember that the majority of electrical work is subject to Part P building regulations and as such the electrical works need to be certified. Attempting to carry out work yourself that is subject to Part P regulations is illegal.

The most straightforward way to overcome this is to only use a qualified and registered electrician to carry out electrical work in your home. In addition to the certification you will have peace of mind that the electrical installation has been tested for safety and complies with the latest electrical and building regulations. In our opinion here at Fulcher Edwards, this is a small price to pay to ensure the continued safety of your family and property.

If you are intent on carrying out as much work as possible yourself, you are able to replace electrical accessories in your home that are like for like. So if your budget is very tight and you are confident in doing so, this could be another option to freshen up the look in your home.

However, in order to achieve the sparkling look that the brochures like to advertise to you, you will need to use the services of a qualified and registered electrician who can carry out the appropriate electrical designs and specify the materials needed to achieve the look.

Don't forget RCD protection

When using electrical DIY tools, it is important that you are protected from electrical injury if your equipment malfunctions. If your home does not currently have RCD protection, then you can purchase RCD sockets at low cost from well known high street retailers. Simply plug in and use for instant protection.


With a bit of forward planning, your Spring DIY should start with a proper 'spring it's step' so don't forget to stay safe and plan ahead! 

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