Renovation electrical work is most effective when layouts, equipment, other trades and decision dates are coordinated before the walls and finishes close. Share the architectural drawings, room plans, appliance information and project programme so the electrical scope can be developed alongside the build.
When to enquire
Define the scope
Coordinating with the build
Socket positions, switch positions, lighting design, appliance loads and the capacity of the existing supply all influence what an extension can do, and all are cheap to change on a drawing and expensive to change in plaster. Involving an electrician while the layout is still being decided is the single highest-value thing you can do.
The work also has to be sequenced around other trades. First fix happens while the structure is open; second fix happens after plastering and decoration. That means two visits separated by weeks, planned against the builder programme rather than booked as one continuous job.
An extension that adds an induction hob, underfloor heating, a car charger or a heat pump may exceed what the existing supply was sized for. The main fuse rating, tails, board capacity and diversity calculation all feed into it. A genuine supply upgrade takes time to arrange, so identify it early.
A conversion usually makes the house three storeys, which brings fire safety requirements for the escape route including interlinked mains-powered alarms. Agree the alarm grade and category with building control at design stage.
New circuits are notifiable under Part P. Where the work is certified through a competent person scheme you receive a Building Regulations compliance certificate; otherwise it must be notified to building control in advance.
Establish in writing what is included. Patching chases is normally distinct from replastering, and decorating is usually excluded from electrical work.
Include the postcode, preferred timing and any useful existing information.