When does a consumer unit (fuse board) need replacing?⌄
The most common reasons to replace a consumer unit are: it contains old rewirable fuses rather than modern MCBs; it doesn't have RCD protection on the circuits that require it; it failed an EICR; or it's showing signs of overheating or physical damage. Older split-load RCD units are not automatically condemned, but a full RCBO consumer unit offers better protection - each circuit has its own combined MCB and RCD, so a fault on one circuit doesn't take out others.
Do you offer free quotes?⌄
Yes, quotes are free with no obligation. Call or WhatsApp and we can discuss the job - for anything straightforward I can usually give a price over the phone, and for larger jobs I'll arrange a site visit.
How long does a consumer unit replacement take?⌄
A straightforward consumer unit swap on a modern installation typically takes a day. The power is off for most of that time - usually four to six hours for the work itself, with additional time for testing and certification. If the installation has faults that need sorting first, or the main supply cable needs upgrading, it can take longer. I'll give you a clear picture at the quote stage so there are no surprises on the day.
What area do you cover?⌄
I cover Penzance, St Ives, Hayle, Marazion, Newlyn, St Just, Camborne, and the wider Penwith peninsula. If you're unsure whether you're in range, just call and ask - I'm happy to travel for the right job.
Do I need to notify anyone when my consumer unit is replaced?⌄
Yes - a consumer unit replacement is notifiable under Part P of the Building Regulations. As a NAPIT-registered electrician, I can self-certify the work, which means I notify the scheme on your behalf and a Building Regulations certificate is issued. You'll receive this certificate, which is important evidence for insurers and future buyers. You don't need to contact the council yourself.
Are you NAPIT registered?⌄
Yes, I'm NAPIT registered - member number 66376. You can verify this on the NAPIT website by searching for Cornovii Electrical. NAPIT registration means I'm assessed annually against industry standards and can self-certify notifiable electrical work, including consumer unit upgrades and new circuits.
What is the difference between a fuse board and a consumer unit?⌄
They are the same thing — "fuse board" is the older common name, "consumer unit" is the correct technical term used in the wiring regulations. The difference that actually matters is what's inside.
An older fuse board typically contains rewirable or cartridge fuses. When a fault occurs, you have to manually replace or repair the fuse wire — and there is usually no RCD protection, meaning a fault can deliver a dangerous shock before anything trips.
A modern consumer unit uses MCBs (miniature circuit breakers) that trip automatically and reset with a switch, and includes RCD or RCBO protection on circuits that require it. This is the standard required by current wiring regulations and what most insurers expect to see.
Are you VAT registered?⌄
Not currently, which means there's no VAT to add on top of my prices. This may change in the future, but any change would be communicated clearly before work is quoted or carried out.
Can I replace my consumer unit myself?⌄
No — a consumer unit replacement is notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations, which means it must be carried out by a competent person registered with an approved scheme such as NAPIT or NICEIC, or you must apply for Local Authority Building Control approval and have the work inspected.
An unregistered person carrying out this work cannot legally issue the required certificate, and an uncertified consumer unit replacement can cause serious problems when selling a property or making an insurance claim. It is also inherently high-risk work — the main supply terminals remain live throughout, and working near them without the correct training and precautions is dangerous.
