Part P multi-testers for 16th & 17th edition tests

Part P isn't about the equipment used. It's about closing the loop to make sure there is a record of the test of new installations that will satisfy the Buildings Inspection team at the local authority, so that they can issue a Completion Certificate for the build, which in turn removes any obstruction to the selling of the property at a later date on the grounds of an untested electrical installation and the safety implications thereof.

One solution for the DIY installer that is not part P accredited, is to hire a firm to come in and test the installation and issue the certificate. Yellow Pages listings will reveal a number of local agencies prepared to do this task.

An installation in a building extension recently completed by a competent amateur was tested this way for £135GBP and the certificate received to the complete satisfaction of the local authority, so it may not be worthwhile investing in the training needed; rumour has it that £2000GBP would be needed to cover the training - OK if one was doing it every day, though not for a one-off.

"Let your fingers do the walking"?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrical_wiring_(UK)

Reply to PWSlack.

Thanks. Calling an independent tester might be necessary when the installation is complete, but as always, an installation needs to be tested as the work progresses, so calling somebody in at intervals is going to be an expensive exercise, and a lot dearer than buying a meter.

Meters are available on eBay etc, and range from a few pounds to a few hundred pounds. My question was aimed at interested engineers in the hope that I could focus my attention on the right meter rather in order to avoid spending money on obsolete one - or one that will cost a packet for a new calibration cert.

I am being sautious here, because I suspect I might be heading into a row with the Local Authority (LA) over the law regards the 'accredited' and 'competency' definition.

This is partly due to the fact that DIY jobs (of a significant nature) must be notified in advance to the LA before work can commence - this you will appreciate will cause major delays (and call-out costs).

The LA have not been notified and the job is well under way. So to comply with the law, the job needs to be done under the control of an accredited body - and in turn - a competent person.

For the purpose of the discussion - that is me - except that the professional 'Body' I belong to dont seem to be on the LA 'Accredited' list.

Depending on the attitude of the Building Inspector - there is great potential for the LA to make an issue of it - if I issue my own certificate. Which is what I intend to do.

For this I need to check that the installation has been done in accordance with Part P and BS7671 - 16th and 17th Editions, and then to test the installation (remedy any faults) and fill in the forms.

So back to the meter - for which I am interested in specific ideas about my selection logic.