Consumer Unit Replacement

Does my consumer unit need replacing?

An older consumer unit does not necessarily need replacing simply because a newer type is available. However, an upgrade may be recommended if:

• There are signs of damage, overheating or deterioration
• Circuit breakers or fuses regularly trip
• The enclosure or internal components are in poor condition
• The installation lacks suitable protection
• You are planning an EV charger, battery system or other significant electrical work
• An EICR has identified defects at the consumer unit
• You need additional circuits but the existing unit has insufficient capacity

I will assess the installation and explain the available options before recommending any work.

What are the benefits of a modern consumer unit?

Depending on the installation, a modern consumer unit can provide:

• Improved protection against electric shock
• Individual circuit protection using RCBOs
• Surge protection for electrical and electronic equipment
• Easier identification and isolation of individual circuits
• Additional capacity for future electrical work
• A robust metal enclosure
• Improved reliability and fault finding

The precise equipment required will be selected according to the property and the condition of its electrical installation.

What does the work include?

A typical consumer-unit replacement includes:

• An initial assessment of the existing installation
• Inspection of the earthing and bonding arrangements
• Testing of the existing circuits
• Removal of the old consumer unit
• Installation and labelling of the new consumer unit
• Testing of the completed installation
• Electrical certification
• Notification of the work where required
• An explanation of the new controls and protective devices

Any defects discovered during testing will be explained to you. If additional work is required, this will be discussed before proceeding wherever possible.

Will the electricity be switched off?

Yes. The electrical supply will need to be switched off while the replacement and testing are completed.

Please let me know in advance if anyone in the property relies on powered medical equipment, or if there is equipment that must not be disconnected.

How long does replacement take?

Many straightforward domestic consumer-unit replacements can be completed within a day. Larger installations, access difficulties or faults discovered during testing may require additional time.

I will provide a more accurate indication after assessing your existing consumer unit and installation.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes. Following completion and satisfactory testing, you will receive the appropriate electrical certification.

Where the work is notifiable, DS Electrical will also arrange the required notification through the relevant competent-person scheme.

How much does a consumer-unit replacement cost?

The price depends on factors including:

• The number of circuits
• The type of protection required
• The condition of the existing wiring
• Earthing and bonding arrangements
• Accessibility and the location of the consumer unit
• Any faults that require remedial work

Contact DS Electrical with a photograph of your existing consumer unit and some basic property details to receive an initial assessment and quotation.

Why choose DS Electrical?

• Local, NAPIT-approved electrician
• Clear advice without unnecessary upgrades
• Modern, quality components
• Thorough inspection and testing
• Electrical certification provided
• Work completed carefully and professionally
• Serving Carnforth, Lancaster, Morecambe and surrounding areas

Request a consumer-unit quotation

If you are concerned about an existing consumer unit, planning additional electrical work or have received an unsatisfactory EICR, contact DS Electrical to discuss the next step.

Sending a clear photograph of the consumer unit with your enquiry will help me provide more useful initial advice.