If you live in Hoddesdon and you’re wondering whether your fuse board should be metal, the short answer is simple: Yes — for your safety, your compliance, and your peace of mind.
Since 2015, UK wiring regulations have required consumer units (fuse boards) to be made of non-combustible materials, usually metal. This change wasn’t about appearances. It was about fire protection, saving lives, and future-proofing homes. In this guide, we’ll explain why modern metal consumer units are essential, what regulations apply, and why upgrading your fuse board might be one of the best decisions you make for your home.
Why Was the Change to Metal Fuse Boards Introduced?
Before 2015, it was common for consumer units to be made from plastic. While these units looked neat, they had a serious flaw: they could catch fire easily if an electrical fault occurred inside the board. Research by fire services showed that:
- Fires starting in fuse boards were becoming more frequent.
- Plastic units allowed flames to spread quickly once a fault occurred.
- High temperatures inside overloaded or faulty boards could cause plastic casings to melt, ignite, and worsen fires.
As a result, the 18th Edition of the BS7671 Wiring Regulations introduced a critical safety requirement: Consumer units must be constructed from non-combustible materials, such as steel, or housed in a non-combustible enclosure. This regulation aimed to contain any potential fires inside the unit, giving occupants vital extra time to escape and reducing the spread of fire through the building.
What Does This Mean for Hoddesdon Homeowners?
If your fuse board:
- Is made of plastic
- Was installed before 2016
- Looks old, cracked, discoloured, or warped - then it likely does not meet current safety standards — and upgrading is strongly recommended.
While there’s no legal requirement to replace a working plastic unit immediately, any new installation or major electrical work must now use a compliant metal consumer unit. Many insurers are also starting to expect updated electrical safety features — and future property sales could be affected if your electrics are visibly outdated.
Benefits of Upgrading to a Metal Consumer Unit
Upgrading your fuse board to a modern, metal unit brings significant advantages:
1 - Fire Containment
Metal consumer units are specifically designed to contain flames in the event of an electrical fire, preventing spread to the rest of your home.
2 - Improved Safety Standards
Modern metal units come fitted with RCDs and RCBOs as standard, offering far better protection against shocks, overloads, and faults.
3 - Compliance with Current Regulations
An upgraded metal fuse board ensures your home meets the latest British Standards (BS7671), helping with insurance and property valuations.
4 - Greater Durability
Metal units are tougher, more resilient, and built to last, offering decades of reliable protection.
5 - Future-Proofing
If you plan to add EV chargers, solar panels, or other high-load circuits, a modern metal board provides a safe, expandable base.
What Happens During a Fuse Board Upgrade?
At JJB Electrical, we make upgrading your fuse board in Hoddesdon simple and stress-free. Here’s what’s involved:
- Full Inspection: We check your existing wiring to ensure it’s safe to connect to a new consumer unit.
- Selection of the Right Board: Depending on your home’s size and needs, we recommend a suitable metal consumer unit with full RCD/RCBO protection and surge protection if required.
- Professional Installation: We safely disconnect the old board, install the new metal unit, label circuits clearly, and ensure everything is neat, compliant, and easy to use.
- Testing and Certification: Every circuit is rigorously tested to BS7671 standards. You’ll receive an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC), and we’ll notify Building Control for you.
- The entire upgrade typically takes around one working day.
FAQs About Metal Consumer Units
Q: Is upgrading to a metal fuse board mandatory?
A: Only for new installations and major alterations. However, it’s highly recommended for safety and compliance.
Q: Will a metal unit stop a fire completely?
A: It won’t prevent faults entirely, but it will contain a fire within the unit, reducing risk to life and property.
Q: Does upgrading mean rewiring the whole house?
A: Not necessarily. We carry out safety checks first. If the existing wiring is in good condition, only the consumer unit needs upgrading.
Q: How much does a metal fuse board upgrade cost in Hoddesdon?
A: Typically between £750 to £1,200, depending on the number of circuits and specific protection requirements.
Real Experiences in Hoddesdon
"Our old plastic fuse board started making strange noises. JJB Electrical upgraded it to a new metal consumer unit with surge protection. The whole process was clear, professional, and left us feeling much safer." — Emma and David S, Hoddesdon
"Brilliant service from start to finish. The team explained why metal boards are now required, did a tidy installation, and issued full certification. Highly recommend." — Josh L, Hoddesdon
Why Homeowners in Hoddesdon Trust JJB Electrical
Choosing a team you can rely on makes all the difference when it comes to electrical safety. At JJB Electrical, we offer:
- NAPIT-accredited workmanshi
- Full compliance with the latest safety regulations
- Clear, jargon-free advice
- Tidy, respectful installations
- Full testing, certification, and Building Control notification
- Friendly, honest service from first call to final sign-off
- We treat your home’s safety with the same seriousness we treat our own.
In Summary: Should Your Fuse Board Be Metal?
If you live in Hoddesdon and your consumer unit is still plastic, it’s time to start thinking seriously about upgrading. A modern metal fuse board doesn’t just meet current standards — it actively protects your home, your family, and your future against electrical faults and fires. Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Future-proof your home today.
Thinking About Upgrading Your Fuse Board?
If you're unsure whether your consumer unit needs replacing, or you’re ready to upgrade to a modern, metal unit, we’re here to help. Call JJB Electrical today on 01992 276087 Or visit www.jjb-electrical.co.uk Upgrade your safety. Upgrade your peace of mind.
