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Comparison Guide

Electrician vs Handyman: What a Handyman Can (and Cannot) Do

A handyman (£30–£60/hr) can do simple, non-notifiable electrical jobs like replacing a like-for-like light fitting; a registered electrician (£40–£90/hr) is legally required for notifiable work — new circuits, fuse boards, and most bathroom or kitchen electrics.

What a handyman may do

A competent handyman can carry out simple, non-notifiable electrical tasks: replacing a like-for-like light fitting, swapping a faceplate, or changing a plug. These are low-risk and do not require certification.

What needs a registered electrician

Notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations must be done by a registered electrician (NICEIC or NAPIT) who can self-certify it: new circuits, consumer-unit (fuse-board) changes, and most electrical work in bathrooms and kitchens.

Skipping this is a false economy — uncertified work can fail a sale, invalidate insurance, and is genuinely dangerous. The electrician’s rate includes the test certificate you are required to keep.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can a handyman do electrical work in the UK?

Only simple, non-notifiable work like replacing a like-for-like light fitting. Notifiable work — new circuits, fuse boards, most bathroom and kitchen electrics — must be done by a registered electrician who can certify it under Part P.

Why does an electrician cost more than a handyman?

A registered electrician’s rate (£40–£90/hr vs a handyman’s £30–£60/hr) covers the qualification, registration, test equipment, and the legally required certificates. For notifiable work that certification is the whole point.

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