DIY electricians face large fines

The government has been worried by rising deaths

DIY electricians face big fines from Saturday but many are unaware of the new legislation, a survey suggests.

The new regulations mean work more complicated than replacing a plug socket or changing a light switch can require official approval.

The government opted for legislation because of a rising number of deaths due to amateur electrical work.

But a survey by British Gas found 61% of respondents did not know about the new regulations.

And the survey suggested 60% would still do major electrical work themselves or get an unqualified friend to help, despite the new laws.

Work such as fitting a new circuit in a house will require a local authority inspection or the use of a certified electrician.

House fires

Those who break the regulations face fines up to £5,000.

Dangerously-fitted electrics cost the lives of an average of 10 people a year, with 750 seriously injured, the Department of Trade and Industry says.

Unsafe circuits also caused 2,336 house fires last year.

A DTI leaflet earlier this month was launched by Dr Jenny Tonge MP, who lost her daughter in an electrical accident.

Building Regulations Minister Phil Hope said: "These changes will give those renting or buying a property extra peace of mind and reinforce the message from DIY manuals and consumer associations to take special care when considering electrical work in the home.

"Our aim is to drive up standards of workmanship and protect consumers by making our homes safer."