Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our domestic electrical services in Reading
About Beckley Electrical
Do you offer free quotes?
Yes, we provide free, no obligation quotes for all electrical work. Simply call us on 01184 674152 or contact us online. There is no pressure and no hidden charges.
Are you qualified and insured?
Yes, Beckley Electrical is fully qualified and insured. We are registered members of the Competent Person Scheme (Part P approved). We carry full public liability insurance and professional indemnity cover. All work is carried out to current British Standards (BS 7671).
What areas do you cover?
We cover Reading and the surrounding areas within approximately 20 miles. This includes Tilehurst, Caversham, Caversham Heights, Pangbourne, Whitchurch-on-Thames, Charvil, Lower Basildon, Upper Basildon, and more. See all areas we cover.
Do you do small jobs?
Absolutely! No job is too small. Whether you need a single light switch replaced or a complete rewire, we are happy to help.
Do you provide certificates?
Yes, all notifiable work comes with the appropriate certification as required by Building Regulations.
How quickly can you attend?
We aim to respond to all enquiries on the same day and can often arrange a visit at short notice.
Are your prices competitive?
Yes, we offer honest, transparent pricing. We provide free quotes so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins.
Fuseboards and Consumer Units
How do I know if my fuseboard needs replacing?
Your fuseboard may need replacing if it has rewirable fuses, no RCD protection, a wooden backboard, or is more than 25 years old. A modern consumer unit provides much better protection for your home.
How long does a fuseboard replacement take?
A typical fuseboard replacement takes between 4 and 8 hours, depending on the size of your property and the condition of existing wiring.
What is the difference between an MCB, RCD and RCBO?
An MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) protects against overloads and short circuits. An RCD (Residual Current Device) protects against earth faults and electric shock. An RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overload) combines the protection of both an MCB and RCD in a single device.
Electrical Problems and Fault Finding
What causes a circuit breaker to keep tripping?
Common causes include an overloaded circuit, a short circuit, an earth fault, or a faulty appliance. We can diagnose the exact cause and carry out the necessary repair.
What should I do if the power goes off?
First, check whether your neighbours also have a power cut. Then check your fuseboard and try resetting any tripped MCBs or RCDs. If the problem persists, contact us for a fault investigation.
Rewiring
How much does it cost to rewire a house?
The cost of rewiring a 3-bed semi-detached house typically starts from £3,500 to £5,000, depending on the size and condition of the property. Contact us for a free, no obligation quote.
Do I need to rewire before selling my house?
There is no legal requirement to rewire before selling, but outdated wiring can affect the sale. An EICR can identify any issues, and addressing them can make your property more attractive to buyers.
Testing and Inspections
What is an EICR?
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a comprehensive inspection of your property’s electrical installation. It is recommended every 10 years for homeowners and required every 5 years for landlords of domestic properties.
How often should I have my electrics tested?
Homeowners should have their electrics tested every 10 years. Landlords are required to have their domestic properties tested every 5 years.
Regulations and Compliance
What electrical work needs Building Regulations approval?
Notifiable work includes new circuits, consumer unit replacement, and new circuits in bathrooms or kitchens. As a registered Competent Person, we can self-certify this work, saving you time and money.
Do I need an electrician to change a light switch?
A simple like-for-like replacement is not notifiable. However, changing the type or location of a switch may require an electrician to ensure compliance with regulations.
Upgrades and Improvements
Is it worth upgrading to LED lighting?
Yes, LED lighting uses 80–90% less energy than traditional bulbs and lasts between 25,000 and 50,000 hours. You could save £200 to £300 per year on your electricity bills.
Do you install EV chargers?
Yes, we install home EV charging points with dedicated circuits to safely and efficiently charge your electric vehicle.
