What is a consumer unit?
The consumer unit is the distribution and protection for your fixed wiring after the meter. A modern change gives you the right breakers, a safe layout, and a valid certificate where the work is notifiable.
Want the full story? — Consumer unit: advanced (detailed) (fixed sizes, spare ways, SPD, and how the calculator is built). The upgrade calculator is deliberately simple: it gives a rough, best-case budget. After we’ve been on site we can price the real job properly.
Property owners and landlords
Homeowners often look at the board when buying, extending, or adding a kitchen. Landlords in England need safe electrics and periodic EICRs (separate from, but often related to, a board upgrade). Multi-property or several boards: we confirm on site or with good photos — more on that in advanced.
What the calculator is for (and not for)
The calculator prices one main board, or one small secondary (1–3 circuits) — and invites you to book a visit for a proper quote. Main vs secondary, testing bundle, and multi-board limits are spelled out in advanced.
Best case online, real price on site. The number is a hook for budgeting — the firm cost often goes up once we have seen access, condition, and surprises. We’re not done until you’re happy.
Commercial, industrial, and “special” form factors (three-phase supplies, busbar or panelboard distribution, or manufacturer-specific control gear) are not in scope for the online calculator. Those jobs need a one-to-one consultation and written quotation after we understand the supply, demand, and access. Start from Contact or WhatsApp and send photos and site address.
Full rewires and whole-house circuit redesigns are covered by our rewire calculators and guides — which include a new consumer unit as part of a wider scope.
Knowledge Hub — further reading
Deeper, illustrated articles (including for tenants and the curious) live on the Electricians Knowledge Hub. Suggested next reads:
- Consumer unit replacement — full walkthrough
- Consumer unit components explained
- AFDD, SPD, and which protections matter
- Surge protection: do I need it?
- SPD guide (selection and earthing context)
- Preparing for your visit — consumer unit day
Full service and booking
For installation detail, notifiable work, and what you receive on completion, see the main consumer unit (fuse box) upgrades service page. You can add an EICR in the same visit for many let properties, or plan remedials after a report. We’re on 07553 553 536 and via the contact form when you are ready to move from estimate to a fixed price.