Who Is Policing Part P? 

Across the UK, electricians are asking the same question: who’s actually ensuring compliance with Part P of the Building Regulations? 

While Government-approved scheme providers such as NICEIC, ELECSA, and NAPIT check competence when electricians first register, many within the trade question whether enough follow-up inspection happens between assessments. 

This article ties directly to Risk Assessment Lesson 2 and Essential Downloads Lesson 23, both of which emphasise accountability and documentation — key principles behind maintaining compliance. 

The Awareness Problem 

According to the Local Authority Building Council (LABC), 55% of homeowners are unaware that fitting a new electrical circuit is a regulated activity. 

This lack of awareness has two serious effects: 

1. DIY electrical work is on the rise, often carried out without testing or notification. 
   
   
2. Rogue traders can take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners who don’t know how to verify qualifications. 

Many DIY retailers sell electrical components freely, unintentionally encouraging u nqualified individuals to take risks. Without controls on the sale of wiring accessories, unsafe installations will continue. 

Interestingly, while only 2% of homeowners would attempt gas work, the same cannot be said for electrics — revealing a major gap in public understanding. 

Raising awareness of risk and responsibility reflects the learning objectives within Risk Assessment Lesson 3, which focuses on identifying and controlling hazards before they cause harm. 

Part P Prosecutions and Enforcement 

Part P makes it illegal to carry out electrical work that doesn’t comply with Building Regulations. But between 2011 and 2013, NAPIT reported only one successful prosecution 
under Part P — highlighting how little active enforcement is taking place. 

Even more concerning, 72% of local authorities in England took no action on Part P non-compliance during that same period. 

The rules are clear: 

• Failing to comply risks invalidating your home insurance. 

• You may face fines of up to £5,000 per offence. 

• Unsafe work could put lives in danger and complicate future property sales. 

Despite this, policing remains largely reactive — investigations often happen only after accidents or complaints. 

Room for Improvement 

Electricians within Part P schemes have long suggested that providers should monitor members throughout the year, not just at renewal. 

Many in the industry believe the UK should adopt a single, recognisable registration system — similar to Gas Safe — to simplify consumer trust. Currently, only 19% of homeowners recognise the NICEIC name, compared to 62% who recognise Gas Safe. 

A unified register would make it easier for the public to confirm competence and could help eliminate c onfusion around multiple schemes. 

Meanwhile, education remains key. More government-led campaigns and better retailer awareness could help homeowners make safer choices and understand why hiring a registered electrician matters. 

These improvements connect directly to Information in the Workplace Lesson 1, where clarity, communication, and information flow are central to professional standards. 

Staying Compliant with Part P 

For electricians, compliance is both a legal obligation and a mark of professionalism. Proper certification protects clients, supports public trust, and ensures electrical safety for years to come. 

If you’re looking to understand how Part P affects electricians, Elec Training offers both Part P courses and online options to help you stay compliant and confident in y our work. 

Learn more about qualifications and regulatory training at Elec Training.