Consumer Unit & Fuseboard Upgrades
Modern electrical protection, thoughtfully specified for your property. From replacing an ageing fuseboard to upgrading circuit protection, we assess the installation before recommending the right solution.
A safer, better organised electrical installation
Your consumer unit is the point where electrical circuits are distributed and protected. A well-designed upgrade can provide individual circuit protection, clearer identification and more straightforward fault finding.
Not every older fuseboard needs replacing simply because it predates the latest wiring regulations. We consider its condition, the existing circuits, protective measures and your plans for the property before advising.
What we check first
- Supply characteristics and available capacity
- Earthing and main protective bonding
- Condition and suitability of existing circuits
- Insulation resistance and other relevant test results
- Space, access and enclosure location
- Any future EV charging, kitchen or extension requirements
Any defects discovered may need separate remedial work before or during replacement.
Designed around the installation
We specify protection based on the circuit characteristics, the assessment and the applicable requirements of BS 7671.
RCBO protection
Individual residual-current and overcurrent protection for each circuit can help limit the impact of a fault compared with older shared-RCD arrangements.
Surge protection (SPD)
Surge protective devices can help reduce the risk of damage from transient overvoltages. We assess their provision in accordance with current requirements.
AFDD assessment
Arc fault detection devices are considered where required by BS 7671 and where the installation or risk assessment supports their use.
Metal enclosure
Suitable consumer unit assemblies and enclosures are selected for the location, accessibility and relevant product and installation requirements.
Clear circuit labelling
We identify circuits, organise the schedule and provide documentation to make future maintenance and testing easier.
Future planning
Where appropriate, we consider spare ways and provision for anticipated electrical work, including EV charging.
Signs your fuseboard may need attention
- Repeated tripping or unexplained power loss
- Heat, buzzing, burning smells or visible scorching
- Damaged equipment or deteriorating connections
- Missing or unsuitable protection identified by inspection
- Renovations or new electrical loads requiring reassessment
Safety: If you notice burning, smoke or signs of overheating, do not touch the equipment. Isolate power only if it is safe to do so and seek urgent professional assistance.
Inspection before recommendation
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) can help establish the condition of an existing installation. A consumer unit replacement alone will not correct defective wiring or every issue identified in an EICR.
Where wider circuit defects are present, we can discuss targeted repairs or partial or full rewiring as appropriate.
Discuss your existing fuseboardFrom survey to certification
Assessment & scope
We inspect the existing arrangement, discuss your requirements and identify any testing or remedial work needed.
Specification & estimate
We explain the proposed protective devices, any additional work and the expected power interruption.
Replacement & testing
We isolate safely, install the agreed equipment and complete appropriate inspection and testing.
Handover & certification
We provide the relevant electrical certification and arrange Building Regulations notification where applicable.
Qualified testing. Documented work.
NOD Electrical Services is NAPIT-registered and holds City & Guilds 2391 qualifications in electrical inspection and testing. Our consumer unit work is designed, installed, inspected and tested against the applicable requirements of BS 7671, with Part P notification where required.
We explain test findings and any limitations clearly rather than presenting a new fuseboard as a substitute for assessing the rest of the installation.
Fuseboard upgrade FAQs
Does an old fuseboard automatically need replacing?
No. Age alone does not establish that replacement is necessary. Condition, safety, suitability and the results of inspection and testing determine the appropriate recommendation.
Will the power be off during replacement?
Yes. The circuits supplied by the consumer unit must be safely isolated during the work. We explain the expected interruption before starting.
Can a new consumer unit stop nuisance tripping?
Individual RCBO protection can reduce the number of circuits affected by a fault, but underlying faults and leakage currents still need investigation. A new board does not guarantee that tripping will cease.
Do you test the existing circuits?
Yes. Appropriate pre-work assessment and verification testing are essential to confirm the suitability of circuits and protective measures. Any defects are discussed with you.
Will I receive an electrical certificate?
Yes. Relevant electrical certification is issued for the completed work, together with Building Regulations notification where applicable.
How much does a consumer unit replacement cost?
It depends on the number and condition of circuits, protective device specification, location, earthing and bonding, and any necessary remedial work. We provide a tailored estimate after assessment.
Thinking about a fuseboard upgrade?
Send us a photograph of your existing consumer unit and a short description of the property. We'll advise on the next step and whether a site assessment is required.