karen@brightsparkelectrician.co.uk

01892 531 728

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How much does it cost to upgrade my fuse board?

How much does it cost to upgrade my fuse board?

Most domestic consumer unit upgrades I quote come in between £750 and £1250, depending on the number of circuits, the condition of your existing wiring, and whether any remedial work turns up once the old board's opened up. Commercial distribution board upgrades typically run higher, from £1250 upwards, depending on load and the number of ways.

I'll always give you a fixed price before I start, not an estimate that creeps once I'm on site.

Consumer Unit installed in Tonbridge - Bright Spark

Why does the price vary so much?

Three things drive the cost up or down:

  • Number of circuits — more ways on the board means more time and materials.
  • Access and location — a board tucked under stairs in a period property takes longer than one in a modern utility cupboard.
  • What we find underneath — old cabling, missing earth bonding, or non-compliant existing work sometimes needs sorting before the new board goes in. If that happens, I'll always explain what's needed and why before doing anything extra.

This is exactly why I run an EICR first on older properties — it flags these issues before you're committed to a price, not halfway through the job.

What's included in a consumer unit replacement?

Every fuse board upgrade I carry out includes:

  • Removal and safe disposal of the old fuse board
  • Installation of a new metal-clad consumer unit (a requirement under BS 7671 since Amendment 3 of the 17th Edition)
  • RCBO or RCD protection on every circuit as required
  • Full testing and certification
  • A Building Regulations compliant Electrical Installation Certificate

Phillip, our NICEIC Qualified Supervisor, signs off every certificate personally, so you've got a paper trail that satisfies mortgage lenders, insurers, and buyers if you ever sell.

What consumer unit brands do you install?

For domestic properties we fit Hager, Wylex and Fusebox boards — all metal-clad, RCBO-protected units that meet current regulations. For commercial premises we install Eaton distribution boards, sized to the load and circuit count of the building.

We don't tie you to one brand. I'll recommend whichever fits your property, your budget, and what's already in the cupboard.

Do I need to comply with the new BS 7671 update?

Yes. BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 (Amendment 4) was published in April 2026, and the previous version is withdrawn on 15 October 2026. As an NICEIC-approved contractor, we work to the current amendment on every job, so any fuse board we install is compliant with the latest wiring regulations — not the version that was current when your old board went in.

If your existing board predates Amendment 2 (2022), there's a good chance it's already non-compliant with current requirements around RCD/RCBO protection, which is one of the most common reasons insurers query old installations.

BS761 Electrical Regulations

How do I know if my fuse board needs upgrading?

Common signs include:

  • A board with a wooden back or rewireable fuses rather than circuit breakers
  • No RCD protection on socket circuits
  • Frequent tripping, or fuses that won't reset
  • You're selling, buying, or renting a property and need an up-to-date EICR
  • Your last EICR came back with a C1 or C2 code against the board

If you're not sure, an EICR will tell you exactly where you stand — see our Electrical Testing page for what that involves.

Get a fixed price

We cover Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Crowborough and the surrounding areas. Call 01892 531 728, WhatsApp 07775 561 363, or email karen@brightsparkelectrician.co.uk for a fixed quote.

FAQ

How long does a fuse board upgrade take?

Most domestic consumer unit changes take a full working day, including testing and certification. Larger commercial boards can take longer depending on the number of circuits.

Will I be without power during the upgrade?

Yes, briefly. We isolate the supply while the new board is fitted and tested, then restore power the same day.

Is a fuse board upgrade notifiable to Building Control?

Yes, consumer unit replacements are notifiable work under Part P. As an NICEIC-registered contractor, we self-certify the work and register it with Building Control on your behalf — you don't need to do anything.

Can I get a Hager, Wylex or Fusebox board specifically?

Yes, tell us your preference when you get in touch and we'll quote for that brand, subject to what suits your existing installation.

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Karen and her team provide a very efficient, friendly and pro-active service with a smile! We would not hesitate in recommending Bright Spark and fully intend to use them in the future for our electrical requirements."

Sarah & Derek - Lamberhurst

I have always found Karen and her team at Bright Spark to be friendly, professional and reliable. Their quotes have been reasonably priced and provide a thorough breakdown of costs for replacements parts and labour. I highly recommend them.

Martin, Speldhurst

Karen arrived shortly after my phone call, all sorted. Very happy, thank you.

Martin, Tunbridge Wells

I have used Bright Sparks for two jobs and have been delighted with the quality of the work carried out. Karen is very knowledgeable in her subject and her staff are very well trained , courteous and hard working. I would highly recommend the company without hesitation.

Linda R, Crowborough

A rapid response An item of household electrical equipment decided to fail. As a result, many electrical circuits in my Home closed down. I contacted Bright Sparks, and an electrician quickly appeared. He calmly checked the circuits and solve the problems. Well done.

AH - Tonbridge

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