What Certificates Do Electricians Need?

Core Qualifications and Certificates

To become a qualified electrician in the UK, you’ll typically need:

NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation

This is the main industry qualification and a minimum requirement for most employers, contractors, and registration schemes. It proves you have the skills and practical experience to work safely.

• Often achieved through an apprenticeship or on-site assessment

• Recognised across the industry

18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671)

All electricians must be up to date with the current IET Wiring Regulations. The 18th Edition (with Amendment 2) is the current version.

• Required to register with schemes like NICEIC, NAPIT, or ECA

• Demonstrates you understand how to design and install safe systems

ECS Gold Card

Issued by the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme, this card proves your qualification and competence to work on sites.

• Valid for 3 years

• Often required to work on large construction projects or for main contractors

• Includes your JIB grading and health & safety test

Job-Specific Electrical Certificates

In addition to your qualifications, electricians issue certificates to confirm the safety and compliance of their work. These are often required by law or under contract.

Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)

Used when new electrical installations are completed, including new circuits or full rewires.

• Confirms work has been designed, installed, and tested to regulations

• Required for compliance with BS 7671

Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC)

Used for minor alterations or additions to existing circuits (e.g. adding a socket).

• Confirms that small-scale work meets current wiring regulations

• Doesn’t apply to new circuits

Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

A safety report used to assess the condition of existing installations — especially in rental properties.

• Often required by landlords every 5 years

• Rates the safety of a property’s electrics (satisfactory or unsatisfactory)

Part P Notification

Part P of the Building Regulations applies to domestic electrical work in England and Wales.

• If you’re registered with a competent person scheme, you can self-certify

• Otherwise, work must be signed off by local authority building control

Domestic electricians must register with schemes like NICEIC or NAPIT to issue Part P notifications directly.

Additional Certificates and Requirements

Depending on the type of work you do, you may also need:

• PAT Testing Certification – to test portable appliances for safety

• Emergency Lighting Certificates – if installing commercial systems

• Fire Alarm Certificates – for fire detection systems in commercial settings

• Inspection & Testing 2391 – to carry out EICRs and periodic inspections

Why Certificates Matter

• Prove you’re competent and up to date

• Help you join approved schemes and win better jobs

• Required for issuing legal documents and self-certifying work

• Build trust with clients, landlords, and contractors

Do You Need Insurance to Issue Certificates?

Yes — most schemes and clients require you to have:

• Public Liability Insurance – usually minimum £2 million

• Professional Indemnity Insurance – especially if issuing reports like EICRs

• Employers’ Liability Insurance – if you have any staff or apprentices

At ABA Insurance, we provide insurance packages built specifically for electricians who issue certificates, carry out inspections, and work in domestic or commercial environments.

Need a quote or want to review your current policy?
Call us on 01474 833 322 or get a fast online quote at: www.abainsurance.co.uk/trades-insurance-quote/