Certification usually matters when the consumer unit is being replaced, a report has asked for evidence,
or someone needs to know whether notifiable work will be handled correctly. The useful first step is to
confirm what paperwork is being asked for and whether the board condition supports replacement planning.
Key point: if the real question is whether an already-finished board change can simply be “certified
later”, that needs its own check. It is much better to sort the scope before the work starts than try to
repair missing paperwork afterwards.
What certification usually means
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Consumer unit replacement is treated as notifiable domestic electrical work where Part P applies.
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Registered electrical delivery should make clear who tests, certifies and notifies the work if it goes
ahead.
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If the question is missing paperwork from past work, that needs a separate check rather than a promise
from photos alone.
What can change the next step
- An EICR comment, survey note or solicitor question can point to a different first check.
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Poor board condition, overheating or repeated trips can turn a paperwork question into wider remedial
planning.
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If replacement is not the right answer, the next step should be explained before anyone commits to the
wrong work.
Official sources and further guidance