Planning a consumer unit upgrade

Ask why replacement is proposed

A new consumer unit can improve protection, but it does not renew the wiring throughout a property. Ask the electrician to explain the reason for the upgrade and assess existing circuits first. Electrical Safety First recommends an EICR in advance of planned replacement; a pre-work survey is needed if that report is declined.

• Request a written allowance or process for existing faults discovered during assessment.
• Ask which protective devices are proposed, why they suit the installation and what future additions the design allows.

Plan the outage and responsibilities

Agree the likely time without electricity and any work involving the network operator or meter equipment. Tell the contractor about medical equipment, alarms, refrigeration and business use. Do not remove covers or interfere with the service fuse or meter yourself.

• Ask what happens if a circuit cannot safely be put back into use.
• Discuss access, labelling, making good and any temporary arrangements before the day.

Agree the handover

Consumer unit replacement is notifiable domestic work in England. Confirm the Building Regulations route and fees before starting. Ask for the appropriate Electrical Installation Certificate and compliance documentation, plus an explanation of circuit labels and the manufacturer's user instructions. An installation certificate for the replacement is not automatically a whole-property condition report.