NICEIC and NAPIT are the two biggest Government-approved certification schemes for UK electricians. Both let their members self-certify domestic work under Part P. In practice, either is fine. Here is the honest comparison.
What they both do
- Assess and audit electricians annually
- Register businesses with the Government as Competent Persons under Part P
- Provide the certification paperwork for notifiable work
- Offer insurance-backed workmanship warranties (up to 6 years typically)
- Publish a searchable register so you can verify any registered contractor
NICEIC (the older, bigger one)
National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting. Founded 1956. The oldest and biggest scheme in the UK. Roughly 25,000 registered contractors. Slightly heavier annual assessment. Widely known by consumers as the recognised name.
NAPIT (the modern challenger)
National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers. Founded 1992. Around 12,000 registered members. Also covers gas, plumbing and heating trades, so useful for multi-trade businesses. Slightly cheaper annual fees, and NAPIT is more focused on smaller businesses.
Which is better?
Honestly, neither is better. The audit standards are equivalent, the paperwork you receive is legally identical, and both are equally accepted by insurers, solicitors and Leeds City Council. The reputation edge NICEIC has is because it has been around longer.
How to verify your electrician
- Go to niceic.com or napit.org.uk
- Search by their business name or registration number
- Confirm they are listed as a current member (not lapsed)
- Note their specific approval level: Domestic Installer, Approved Contractor, etc.
Red flags
- They say they are "insured under NICEIC" but are not listed on the register (insurance is separate from registration)
- They will not give you a registration number
- They quote for notifiable work but say certification is extra (it should be included)
- They ask you to notify Building Control yourself (registered contractors do this for you)