Heights of switches, sockets-outlets and controls

[Goody]

It is recommended to place switches, sockets and controls in accessible position at a height of 450 mm and 1200 mm from the finished floor level, but would it still comply if the sockets are 200 mm from finished floor level?

Most of the houses have the sockets a couple of inches above the skirt board which is 200 mm from the floor board.

Cheers!

 

[IQ Electrical]

This is Part M territory, is this a refurb or new build?

 

[Goody]

It's a refurb. Thanks

 

[IQ Electrical]

It's a refurb. Thanks

The requirements do not apply to a rewire so long as the new installation is no worse than the old in terms of compliance.

 

[Octopus]

If my memory serves me correctly, the heights and positions in the OSG are mandatory for new builds.

Refurbs, extensions, etc, the positions can be in keeping with the remainder of the property.

 

[steamboatwilly]

Yes, new builds only. There's a general rule though which says that socket and switch positioning has to comply with other Regs (cable runs, height above worktops, etc)....I'm working on a *major* refurb at the moment and the 'sparkie' who re-wired (I'm adding mains smokes....) put all of the sockets just above the new skirtings. Fab, except that most sealed plugs with fixed tails don't fit in......

Oh, and he left a live 16mm tail in the CU cupboard and apparently didn't have any blanking plates for the 4 missing MCBs (which no doubt he pocketed instead).

 

[JD6400]

You say that it is a major refurb , depending on how bigger a percentage that is now new it could actually now be classed as new build and need part m .
A good yard stick in our experience is if the architect has gone to the trouble of specking the builder too stud and insulate the internal side of all exterior walls .

 

[steamboatwilly]

You say that it is a major refurb , depending on how bigger a percentage that is now new it could actually now be classed as new build and need part m .
A good yard stick in our experience is if the architect has gone to the trouble of specking the builder too stud and insulate the internal side of all exterior walls .

Thanks....no new walls but new windows, doors, flooring, rewire, new boiler/heating, complete re-decorate, re-clad exterior. My customer has just bought it so I've told him to make sure he gets an installation certificate from the lawyers.