FAQs

Whether you’re a homeowner or running a business, electrical questions come up from time to time. This page brings together clear, straightforward answers to some of the most common queries we receive across both residential and commercial work.

Residential FAQs

When do I need a rewire?

There’s no fixed rule on when a property must be rewired. Older wiring isn’t automatically unsafe; its condition depends on the materials used and how well the electrics have been looked after over the years.
As a general guide, we recommend arranging a periodic inspection:

Every 10 years for owner-occupied homes
Every 5 years for rented properties

These inspections check the safety of your electrical system and highlight any areas that may need upgrading. It also helps to carry out your own visual checks from time to time. Warning signs include:

Burn marks on sockets or plugs
Buzzing, crackling, or any unusual sounds
Fuses blowing or breakers tripping regularly

If you notice any of these, it’s worth getting an electrician to take a look.

What is a periodic inspection, and when is it required?

A periodic inspection is a thorough check of your electrical installation. During the visit, the system is tested and assessed to make sure it’s safe, compliant, and working as it should.

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). This highlights any faults, wear and tear, or anything that doesn’t meet current electrical standards.

Recommended inspection intervals are:

Every 5 years, or at each change of occupancy, for tenanted properties
Every 10 years for owner-occupied homes
Every 5 years for commercial properties
Every 3 years for caravans
Every year for swimming pools

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must keep electrical installations in good repair and safe working order. To stay compliant, inspections should be carried out by a registered electrician at the correct intervals.

Why should I use an NICEIC contractor?

Electrical work should always be carried out by someone fully qualified. NICEIC-approved contractors are assessed regularly for competence and can self-certify their work, giving you confidence that everything is completed to a recognised standard.

As an NICEIC-accredited business, we also provide the Platinum Promise, which covers electrical work up to £25,000 — a level of protection only available through NICEIC contractors.

Choosing an NICEIC electrician means:

Regular annual assessments by NICEIC
Full public liability insurance
Access to an independent complaints process
Approval to carry out all types of inspection and testing, from minor works to full installations, fire alarms, emergency lighting, and periodic inspections

Is your work guaranteed?

Yes. All work carried out by J.J Electrical comes with a one-year warranty on both parts and workmanship.
On top of this, our work is protected by NICEIC insurance for added peace of mind.

Commercial FAQs

What services do commercial electricians provide?

Commercial electrical work covers a wide range of services depending on the size and needs of your business. Typical areas include:

Full electrical installations and upgrades
Lighting design, installation, and maintenance
Emergency lighting systems
Data and network cabling
Fire alarm systems
Electrical testing (EICR) and compliance work
Energy-efficient upgrades, such as LED lighting and smart controls
Planned maintenance contracts
Fault finding and repair
EV charger installation

Can you work outside business hours to avoid disruption?

Yes. We can arrange evening, early-morning, or weekend appointments to keep downtime to a minimum and ensure your business can operate without interruption.

What are common signs my building needs electrical attention?

Issues in commercial buildings often show early warning signs. Look out for:

Breakers tripping frequently
Flickering or failing lighting
Overheating equipment or any unusual smells
Outdated fuse boards
Emergency lighting that doesn’t activate
Rising energy bills
Buzzing, sparking, or unusual noises from outlets or panels

If you notice any of these, it’s best to get an electrician to investigate before the problem escalates.

Do you provide maintenance contracts?

Yes. We offer planned preventive maintenance packages that include routine inspections, testing, and repairs. These help keep your electrical systems safe, compliant, and reliable year-round.

Can you help improve energy efficiency?

Absolutely. We can advise on and install a range of energy-saving solutions, including:

LED lighting upgrades
Motion sensors and smart control systems
Power monitoring and load management
Efficient distribution systems and equipment choices

Can you design and install the entire electrical system?

Yes. We provide full design, supply, and installation as a complete turnkey service. Our team handles everything from planning and materials to installation, testing, and certification.