How to Become a Qualified Supervisor
If you’re an electrician aiming to take full control of your own work — from installation to certification — becoming a Qualified Supervisor (QS) is a major career milestone. It’s the recognition that you’re competent to i nspect, test, and sign off notifiable electrical work under a Government-approved Part P Scheme.
This guide explains what the role involves, why it matters, and how to gain the right combination of experience and qualifications to get approved.
What Does a Qualified Supervisor Do?
A Qualified Supervisor is the person responsible for ensuring that all electrical work completed by their business complies with building regulations and industry standards such as BS 7671 (18th Edition).
They’re authorised by a Competent Person Scheme (CPS) — like NICEIC, NAPIT, or Stroma — to self-certify notifiable work, such as consumer unit replacements or new circuits in kitchens and bathrooms.
Essentially, a QS acts as the technical representative for a registered c ompany. They’re the one answerable to the scheme provider during audits, site visits, and documentation checks.
Understanding the legal responsibility that comes with this role is key. The Law – Lesson 1 module on Elec Training’s learning platform gives a clear overview of health and safety legislation — the same legal framework Qualified Supervisors operate under every day.
Why Become a Qualified Supervisor?
Becoming a QS allows you to:
- Sign off your own notifiable work without using local building control.
- Save time and costs by avoiding third-party inspections.
- Boost your credibility when quoting for domestic or small commercial jobs.
- Take responsibility for quality assurance within your business.
- Advance your career, opening doors to supervisory, managerial, or inspection roles.
It’s also a natural progression for electricians who’ve completed their Level 3 NVQ and want to formalise their status within a Part P Scheme.
As schemes evolve, their entry requirements become stricter. Since 2021, most CPS providers now require applicants to hold:
- 18th Edition (BS 7671) qualification.
- Level 3 Inspection & Testing qualification.
- 2357 NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent).
- At least two years’ verified experience.
The Site Visitors – Lesson 1 lesson demonstrates how professionalism and communication skills play a crucial role during audits or inspections — a big part of maintaining CPS approval once qualified.
The Step-by-Step Route to Becoming a Qualified Supervisor
Step 1: Gain Your Foundation Qualifications
Start with your core electrician training:
- Level 2 Diploma (C&G 2365-02)
- Level 3 Diploma (C&G 2365-03)
- 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (C&G 2382-22)
These courses build the theoretical and practical base required for progression.
If you’re new to the trade, completing both levels at an approved centre such as Elec Training provides a recognised pathway that meets City & Guilds standards.
Step 2: Achieve Your NVQ
The NVQ Level 3 (C&G 2357) is essential. It involves compiling an on-site portfolio demonstrating your competence in real work situations. It’s assessed against national standards and proves that you can carry out installation, testing, and maintenance work safely and independently.
NVQ evidence can come from your own projects, supervised employment, or work placements.
The Law – Lesson 11 resource explains how legal accountability applies to supervised work — a key topic when building your NVQ portfolio responsibly.
Step 3: Complete Inspection & Testing
Once you’ve achieved your NVQ, move on to the Level 3 Inspection, Testing, and Periodic Reporting qualification (C&G 2391 or equivalent). This certifies your ability to assess installations to the standards of BS 7671 — the final technical requirement before CPS registration.
Step 4: Gain Practical Experience
Most scheme providers require two years of post-qualification experience. During this time, focus on varied installations — domestic rewires, consumer unit changes, fault finding, and remedial works.
Record your projects, keep copies of test certificates, and collect references from clients or employers. These will be reviewed during your scheme assessment.
Step 5: Apply to a Part P Scheme
Once you meet the requirements, choose a Competent Person Scheme such as NICEIC, NAPIT, or Stroma. Each will assess your qualifications, insurance, and recent work.
The process usually includes:
- Document and certificate review.
- On-site assessment by a scheme assessor.
- Verification of safe isolation, testing, and compliance knowledge.
When approved, you’ll receive your membership certificate and the ability to self-certify electrical installations under Building Regulations.
The Site Visitors – Lesson 2 module explores how assessors review documentation and communication during visits — excellent preparation for your CPS evaluation.
What if You’re Starting from Scratch?
For those new to the industry, becoming a Qualified Supervisor isn’t a quick process — but it’s entirely achievable. The most efficient route is to follow structured training that combines both classroom and practical learning.
Elec Training’s programmes allow you to:
- Start with your Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas.
- Progress onto the NVQ Level 3 (2357).
- Gain your Inspection & Testing and 18th Edition qualifications.
- Accumulate experience through supervised work or placement opportunities.
Each step builds towards the competency and evidence required by CPS providers. With consistent progress, most learners reach Qualified Supervisor status within two to three years of starting their training.
Keeping Your Qualification Current
Once registered, you’ll need to renew your CPS membership annually and maintain your qualifications. Updates to BS 7671 or inspection procedures may require refresher training or additional CPD.
Staying current isn’t just about compliance — it’s also about p rotecting your professional reputation. Scheme providers perform periodic audits, and maintaining best practice ensures smooth renewals.
Becoming a Qualified Supervisor gives you control, credibility, and the confidence to operate independently in the electrical industry. It’s proof that your skills, qualifications, and understanding of legislation meet the highest national standards.
If you’re ready to start your journey or complete your next qualification, explore the full range of accredited courses and learner support available through Elec Training at
https://elec.training/.
FAQs
What does a Qualified Supervisor actually do in electrical work?
Qualified Supervisor (QS) in electrical work is responsible for overseeing the safety, technical standards, and quality of electrical installations completed by a company or team. They manage electrical staff, provide technical support, ensure compliance with regulations like BS 7671, review and sign certifications, conduct inspections, and supervise projects to meet NICEIC or similar scheme requirements.
Why is becoming a Qualified Supervisor important for electricians?
Becoming a Qualified Supervisor is important for electricians as it enables oversight of electrical work, ensures compliance with safety standards, allows self-certification under schemes, and is often required for company accreditation (e.g., NICEIC). It enhances career progression, supports team management, and is pivotal for maintaining quality in projects, reducing risks and demonstrating expertise.
What qualifications do I need to apply for Qualified Supervisor status?
To apply for Qualified Supervisor status in the UK, you typically need an NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation (e.g., C&G 2357), the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) qualification, Level 3 Inspection and Testing (C&G 2391), and at least 2 years of professional experience. Some schemes accept equivalent qualifications, and an AM2 assessment may be required for ECS recognition.
How much experience is required before joining a Competent Person Scheme?
At least 2 years of professional electrical experience is required before joining a Competent Person Scheme in the UK, demonstrated via a portfolio or evidence of work as an improver or mate. This ensures competence for self-certification, though some schemes may vary slightly.
What’s the difference between a Qualified Supervisor and a standard electrician?
A Qualified Supervisor (QS) oversees and certifies the work of a team or company, ensuring compliance with standards like BS 7671, while a standard electrician performs installations but may require supervision and cannot self-certify without QS status or scheme registration. QS roles involve management, audits, and responsibility for quality, often needing additional experience beyond basic qualifications.
Which Competent Person Schemes can I register with in the UK?
Competent Person Schemes (CPS) for electricians in the UK include NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA (now part of NAPIT), STROMA (now NAPIT), and British Gas Local Heroes, among others authorized by the government. These schemes allow self-certification of work under Building Regulations, with a full list available on GOV.UK.
What happens during a CPS assessment or site visit?
During a CPS assessment or site visit, the assessor reviews your qualifications, insurance, and technical resources; conducts an office audit for documentation; and inspects recent work sites for compliance with BS 7671. For electricians, this includes checking installations, testing procedures, and certification accuracy, lasting 1-2 days with potential follow-up actions.
Can I become a Qualified Supervisor without an NVQ Level 3?
No, becoming a Qualified Supervisor typically requires an NVQ Level 3 or equivalent qualification in the UK, as it is a minimum standard for demonstrating competence. Some routes may accept alternatives like mature candidate assessments with extensive experience, but Level 3 is standard for most schemes.
How long does it typically take to qualify as QS from beginner level?
From beginner level, it typically takes 3-5 years to qualify as a QS in the UK: 3-4 years for apprenticeship/NVQ Level 3, plus 1-2 years of post-qualification experience, followed by scheme assessments. Mature routes may shorten to 2-3 years with intensive training.
How can I keep my Qualified Supervisor status and stay compliant with BS 7671 updates?
To maintain QS status, renew scheme membership annually (e.g., NICEIC audits), attend CPD training for BS 7671 updates (e.g., Amendment courses every 3-5 years), pass periodic assessments, and keep qualifications current (e.g., re-certify 18th Edition). Stay informed via IET resources and ensure ongoing compliance through surveillance visits.
