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Kitchen regulations: gas, electrics and building control
Quick answer: Gas work must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Electrical work in a kitchen is covered by building regulations and may need a registered electrician or notification. Internal refits rarely need planning permission, but knocking through or structural changes do need approval.
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This guide describes England. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own rules, and rules change, so check the official sources.
Gas
Installing, moving or servicing gas appliances such as a gas hob or boiler must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Ask to see their Gas Safe ID card, and check them on the Gas Safe Register.
Electrics
Electrical work in kitchens is covered by the electrical safety part of the building regulations, often called Part P. Adding a new circuit or making certain changes in a kitchen must be done by a competent registered electrician or notified to building control. Ask for the electrical certificate when the work is done.
Plumbing and ventilation
New plumbing must meet water regulations, and extractor fans and ventilation have to meet building regulations. Your fitter should know the rules.
Planning permission and building control
Replacing units inside a house rarely needs planning permission. Structural changes, such as removing a load-bearing wall, usually need building control approval and often a structural engineer. If the home is listed or in a conservation area, check before you start. The Planning Portal explains the rules for your project.
Asbestos and old houses
Older homes can contain asbestos in textured ceilings, old flooring and pipework lagging. Do not disturb suspect material. The Health and Safety Executive has advice.
When you compare quotes, ask each fitter who handles certificates and notifications. See how to compare kitchen fitter quotes.
Some links here are affiliate links: we may earn a small fee if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
Can I move the hob or boiler myself?
No. Gas work must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Do I need an electrical certificate?
Notifiable electrical work should come with a certificate, and you may need it when you sell. Ask your electrician.
Do I need building control for a new kitchen?
A like-for-like refit often does not, but structural changes, new circuits and some ventilation work do. Ask your fitter or the council.
Keep reading
- How to compare kitchen fitter quotes
- Kitchen renovation: the order of work
- How to set a kitchen budget
Checked 12 November 2026. Prices, products and regulations change, so check the official or supplier page before you rely on anything here.