What's involved
We isolate the supply, fit a new metal (non-combustible) consumer unit with RCD or RCBO protection on each circuit, check earthing and main bonding, test every circuit and issue an Electrical Installation Certificate. Any circuit that fails testing is quoted for remedial work first.
- Since 2016 the wiring regulations require a non-combustible (metal) enclosure in domestic properties, so a modern replacement is a steel unit, not the old plastic type.
- Most replacements are fitted as full RCBO boards (each circuit individually protected) plus a Type 2 surge protection device (SPD), for fewer nuisance trips and better fault discrimination.
- A consumer-unit replacement is notifiable work under Part P — we certify and notify it and issue an Electrical Installation Certificate.
When you need consumer unit upgrade
An old plastic or wooden fuse box, rewireable fuses, no RCD protection, repeated nuisance tripping, or as a remedial item flagged on an EICR.
Consumer Unit Upgrade — at a glance
| Typical price | £450–£900 fitted per board, supplied & fitted |
|---|---|
| Typical timeframe | 4–6 hours |
| Building Regs (Part P) | Notifiable work — we certify and notify it |
| Certification | Completed to BS 7671 (18th Edition) with the correct certificate |
| Areas covered | Billericay, Basildon, Wickford, Brentwood, Ingatestone, Stock & nearby |
See our full price guide — every job is confirmed with a fixed written quote first.
Get a free consumer unit upgrade quote
We respond within one working day
- 1. Tell us the job — a quick description and your postcode, no obligation.
- 2. Free written quote — a clear, itemised price with no hidden call-out fees.
- 3. Certified work — completed to BS 7671 with your certificate and Part P notification.
- NICEIC Registered
- Part P Approved
- NAPIT
- Fully Insured
Consumer Unit Upgrade — FAQs
How long does a fuse board replacement take?
Usually 4–6 hours for a standard domestic board, including testing and certification. You'll have a short period without power while we change it over.
Why does the new consumer unit have to be metal?
Since 2016 the wiring regulations require a non-combustible (metal) enclosure in domestic properties, so a modern replacement is a steel unit rather than the old plastic type.
What is an RCBO and do I need one?
An RCBO combines RCD and MCB protection on a single circuit, so a fault on one circuit doesn't cut power to the whole house. It's the recommended modern option for most homes.
Might other work be needed at the same time?
Sometimes — a new board's RCD protection can reveal a pre-existing fault, or earthing and bonding may need upgrading to meet current standards. We always quote any extras before starting.