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Daily Record
Daily Record
Lifestyle
Nicola Roy & Matthew Evans

Warning over DIY job that could result in £5,000 fine and 'unsellable' home

A DIY expert has warned people about a certain home improvement job that could land you with a hefty fine. Electrician John McCallister has urged homeowners to be aware of any DIY jobs that they do on their homes, as some can make it "impossible" to sell later in life.

The areas in which these jobs are done are described as "special locations" according to building regulations, which could result in a £5,000 fine if certain work is carried out.

North Wales Live reports that these locations include the kitchen and bathroom. Failing to have the correct certification when significant electric work is carried out could mean you're unable to sell your home.

It's actually against the law too, and could see households slapped with a fine - something ideally avoided during the current cost of living crisis.

John McCallister, an electrical expert at MyJobQuote, told Metro: "Accidentally hitting one in a wall or floor is incredibly dangerous. If you’re planning to work on lots of DIY projects, it’s worth investing in a wire detector and learning how to use it correctly.

"It’s important to remember that Part P of the UK building regulations make it illegal to carry out DIY electrics in the bathroom or kitchen. It goes without saying that electricity is dangerous, so anything beyond changing a bulb, rewiring a plug or spur socket should be left to a qualified electrician."

Part P outlines that anyone who carries out electrical installation work in a home must ensure that the work is designed and installed to protect people from fire and electric shocks.

It applies to any changes made to existing installations, including any parts that have been rewired. Electrical Safety First warns: "Electrical installation work must be carried out only by people who have the knowledge, skill and experience needed to avoid any danger to themselves and others."

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