The importance of using an NICEIC approved electrician
In today’s blog we want to share with you a story that highlights why you should always hire an NICEIC approved electrician, and why you shouldn’t be afraid to check an electrician’s accreditations before they start work at your property.
The National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) assesses and approves contractors who meet the high standards set by the regulators. This covers all electrical contractors and installations. The implications if you don’t check an electrician’s accreditation before they start work, can be potentially fatal, as illustrated in the example below.
Rogue Trader Jailed After Investigation
A Lanarkshire man was sentenced to prison after falsely claiming to be NICEIC registered.
The man was ordered to spend 11 weeks in prison and fined £675. He had pleaded guilty to running a fraudulent scheme by pretending he was an NICEIC Approved Contractor and authorised to issue appropriate certificates and reports, which resulted in him obtaining money via fraudulent means. He also claimed he was a SELECT Approved Contractor and a Building Standards Approved Certifier.
The lack of accreditation means that not only was this man collecting money fraudulently, the standard of his work hasn’t been inspected and therefore could be potentially unsafe.
How can I protect myself and my business?
The NICEIC has urged anyone who is suspicious about using an electrician, to check his or her details at the website – www.niceic.com. The website contains a full list of all contractors who are legitimately registered with the NICEIC and have met the high standards the NICEIC works to.
At Norcroft Energy, we are accredited as NICEIC Approved Contractors meaning you are in safe hands when we carry out electrical work at your home or business.
To find out more about the NICEIC or to discuss your electrical requirements, contact the Norcroft team on 01226 763127.