NEW building regulations will come into force tomorrow to reduce the number of faulty electrical installations in the home.

The new rules will affect anyone carrying out electrical work in the home, including DIY enthusiasts.

Failure to comply could lead to householders being required to bring the work up to standard.

Glyn Jackson, West Wiltshire District Council's building control manager, said: "The new regulations cover the design, fitting, inspection and testing of electrical installations.

"As a rule, all work that involves adding a new circuit to a dwelling, or electrical work in kitchens, bathrooms and other specified locations, will need to comply.

"Such work can either be carried out by a 'competent person' registered under the self-certification scheme, or a building control submission will need to be made."

The regulations do not affect small jobs such as providing a socket outlet, or adding a light switch to an existing circuit.

Cllr Michael Mounde, the district council's planning portfolio holder, said: "These new rules aim to make electrics in the home safer, by encouraging householders to take every care possible.

"The building control team is happy to give advice to anyone who is planning to carry out work at home, and I would urge people to give them a call if they are unsure about any part of the regulations."

Information about the new regulations is available from www.westwiltshire.gov.uk