Why upgrade your consumer unit?
Your consumer unit (often still called the fuse box) is the heart of your electrical installation. Older units with rewireable fuses or no RCD protection can't offer the protection modern regulations require. An RCD detects earth leakage and disconnects the supply in a fraction of a second — protection that can prevent fatal electric shocks and electrical fires.
- Old fuse box with wire fuses, or a plastic unit with no RCDs
- Constant nuisance tripping that takes out half the house
- Adding new circuits — for example an extension, shower, or solar and battery system
- An EICR recommending an upgrade
- Signs of heat damage, scorching or a burning smell at the unit
What a modern installation includes
Domestic consumer units must now be housed in a non-combustible (metal) enclosure. We fit quality units with RCD or RCBO protection for every circuit and, where required, surge protection (SPD) to protect your electrics and electronics from transient over-voltages. Every circuit is tested before and after the change.
Replacing a consumer unit is notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations, so as a registered contractor we'll issue an Electrical Installation Certificate and register the work for your Building Regulations compliance certificate.
New installations, additions and alterations
From a single new socket to an entirely new installation, we handle:
- Extra sockets, USB sockets and switches
- New circuits for extensions, garages, outbuildings and garden rooms
- Cooker, hob and dedicated appliance circuits
- Moving or replacing sockets and switches when renovating
- Smoke and heat alarm circuits for homes
- Outdoor sockets and power supplies
Frequently asked questions
How long does a consumer unit replacement take?
Most domestic consumer unit changes are completed in a day, including testing. If testing reveals faults on existing circuits, these need to be fixed before the new unit can be safely energised — we'll explain any issues as we find them.
Will I be without power?
Yes, for most of the day while the unit is replaced and the circuits are tested. We'll agree timings with you in advance.
Do I need a metal consumer unit?
Yes. Consumer units in domestic premises must be in a non-combustible enclosure, which in practice means a metal unit.
Is a fuse box replacement notifiable?
Yes. Replacing a consumer unit is notifiable work under Part P. As a registered contractor we self-certify the work and you receive a Building Regulations compliance certificate.