First Fix:

As the property is now watertight (windows and roof have been fitted), it’s time to start on the first fix electrics and plumbing.

It is strongly recommended to get a certified electrician and plumber to complete this as it is a vital part of the build and needs to be correct.

First fix simply means the work that needs to be carried out before the insulation, plasterboard and flooring is put in place. It would be almost impossible to pull cables through the house once the plasterboard has been fixed.

Electrics – First Fix:

Electrics first fix is where the cables are pulled through to run electricity to the whole house. Additionally, TV points, phone points and broadband points will need to be identified. It is advisable to create a floor plan of the house and mark out where you want the sockets, light switches, TV points etc. to be and hand this to the electrician. You should both sign this document to show both parties understand.

Just before this stage you should have had a discussion with your electrician and let them know your wish list. They will then be able to advise you on costs and practicalities. This could include options such as an around house sound system, intercoms or TVs in bathrooms.

If the electrician can work without interruption, this process should take around a week.

Plumbing – First Fix:

First fix plumbing is similar to the electrics in where it is basically laying the preparations to be able to connect everything together during the second fix.

With plumbing, the plumber will lay the pipework for the heating, water supply and waste water drainage. Ideally, this could take place at the same time as the first fix electrics, but some tradesmen like to work in isolation otherwise they would get under each other’s feat.

As with electrics, it is good practice to print off the property floor plan and mark on it what you require such as where you want the toilets, hand basins, shower, boiler, radiators etc. Again, you should both sign this document to show both parties understand.

Sometimes the plumber will be controlled to government regulations, so your request may not be possible. An example of this includes the number of radiators required for the size of room – a large room may need to have two radiators when you may have only wanted one.

Just before this stage you should have had a discussion with your plumber and let them know your wish list. They will then be able to advise you on costs and practicalities. This could include options such as underfloor heating, a wi-fi controlled boiler or a garbage disposal.

If the plumber can work without interruption, this process should take around a week.

Disclaimer: The information in this website is for general guidance and is not legal advice. Specialist legal advice should be taken in relation to specific circumstances.