I'm converting my loft, do I need an electrical certificate?
Loft conversions are an excellent option to add additional space, but numerous factors to consider beforehand. If you’re thinking about expanding into the loft, it is clear that you will require extra power and lighting. It may be possible to supply power and illumination via existing circuits, or it may be necessary to install a new consumer unit. Consult our Swansea electricians experts to guarantee you receive the most accurate and important advice. You may also be left wondering ‘As I’m converting my loft, do I need an electrical certificate?’.
Standards and building regulations
Some loft conversions don’t need planning permission, but they’ll almost certainly have to meet building codes. Part P of the Building Code says that any electrical work must meet these rules. However, some loft conversions may occasionally require a construction permit before beginning work. So utilising a contractor registered with an electrically competent person scheme such as our electricians in Swansea is straightforward to comply with the Part P standards. This is because we can self-certify the work and, if necessary, alert the local building control board. If the work is notifiable, you will obtain a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate attesting that the work was completed to the required standard and an electrical certificate for the work.
Planning permission
If the work falls outside the scope of Permitted Development, you must apply for planning permission. Loft conversions are also not permitted in specific places, including conservation areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. So in these cases, you would need to submit a planning application. Permitted Development for loft conversions may have been removed in some places. Therefore you should always verify before embarking on a conversion project. Even though the work falls within the scope of Permitted Development, applying for a Lawful Development Certificate is a careful move and necessary if you intend to sell the house soon.
Lighting for your loft conversion
Taking the necessary safeguards against fire is essential for any loft conversion. When converting a loft, adding mains-powered, interconnected smoke alarms is customary. Also, any loft conversion is likely to include some form of additional lighting as a key component. However, your licensed electrician will be able to provide you with guidance on the most appropriate lighting design for the area in question. A fire hood or similar protective device must be used when installing enclosed ceiling lights such as spotlights. Plus they must be installed correctly. As a result, there will be no heat dispersion, and there will be no fire spread. So you might want to think about using uplighting or light washing on the walls to provide the impression of a more significant space.
Reach out to our electrical Swansea company!
So in answer to your question, we advise yes! You should get a building regulations compliance certificate and an electrical installation certificate. This is to show that the work that has been done meets the BS 7671 UK Wiring Regulations. But don’t worry because obtaining the ideal assistance from the electrical Swansea boys won’t have to be so tricky when it comes to your electrical demands or converting your loft. Our company has the most excellent electricians and can handle any of your home renovation projects. We don’t simply complete the work and call it a day for the project. We also assist our valued customers in getting what they require. Whether it’s materials, equipment, or even building rules certificates and permission.