Electricians could face prosecution

Unqualified contractors carrying out major electrical work in homes will soon face criminal prosecution as a result of new consumer protection legislation which will come into effect later this year.

From Oct 1, it will be a criminal offence for anyone except a registered electrical contractor to carry out significant electrical work in residential premises.

Anyone convicted of such an offence will face a possible jail term of up to three years as well as a maximum fine of €15,000.