How can I tell if electrical cables in kitchen are safe?

It does not sound by your description as if it has been done according to regulations, i.e it sounds like an unfused spur feeding multiple points. You should not really be using anyone unregistered for your own protection so ask for his registration details. Also he should be supplying you with a minor works certificate for the works described. I can only suggest that if you are not happy with the installed works call a qualified electrician to check it out for you, you can find a local electrician on this site. Hope this helps-Kevin. Additional note. Coulcils that I have approached would NOT accept self certificates from any one including fully quallified electricians without being submitted through one of the organisations(NAPIT ELECSA ECT) I know because I tried and then regitered full scope with one of these organisations a few years ago. Just to note that kitchen wiring alterations are no longer notifiable under part p this may make it even easier for some people who may over estimate their capabilities to carry on working in these areas without the proper testing equipment/skills to do the job as it really should be done.

There is a technical term for this - it's called a "Cowboy bodge job!" All electrical work in the kitchen must be part P building regulation compliant and carried out to BS7671:2008 as amended to January 2011. What you describe is a long way short of being compliant with the regulations. I also bet that you have not been given any test certificates and building regulation notification for the work either? As such it's highly possible that the local authority could fine you up to £5000 as you have a legal duty to employ a registered part P electrician and ensure that the work is registered with building control. See links below for more information. http://www.donttakethep.co.uk/index.html http://www.esc.org.uk/public/guides-and-advice/leaflets/part-p-of-the-building-regulations/ Best stop him from doing any more work and get a registered electrician in asap - it will be a lot cheaper than the fine!

I would just like to let many electricians out there know that you DO NOT HAVE TO BE REGISTERED with any of the inspectorate associations such as Elecsa etc. You only have to prove your qualifications to install and test under the 17th edition. This is particularly good for those who only do a small amount of electrical work. I do realize however that many organizations require Part P registration irrespective so check before committing to a project. All the relevant certification forms you will require are available free from the I.E.E website. I have submitted self certification to local authorities for the last 2 years, under the regulations they have to accept self certification and I have had no rejections or problems in doing so. I in fact found out from a building control inspector. Why pay an inspectorate some £500 per year and spend a whole day showing installations costing say another £300 in lost time. I think they should do a 5 year inspection like Gas Safety, yearly inspection is not necessary.

Get him out now, dont even think about it.