New Circuits

pritch · Jan 10, 2011

Hi,
I'm just getting back into domestics after 3 years on commerical and I would like to clarify a few things because ive heard so many different stories.
I need to add a couple of circuits for an extension.I changed the board to a split load maybe 5 years ago,before 17th came out.Is it right I need to change the board again to a 17thED or put all the circuits even the ones I havent touched on Rcbo's? If so this will seem like I'm kind of robbing them because its only a while back that I advised them to fork out money to buy a new 16thED one.Would I not just be able to put the two new circuits ive installed on RCBO's?
many thanks

white armour · Jan 10, 2011

Hi pritch, only new circuits need to have RCD protection if they are less than 50mm from surface. Assume that existing tails/earth & bonding comply with latest regs. You may also need to notify LABC.

Regards WA

malcolmsanford · Jan 10, 2011

You do not have to change the existing board. The new circuits only have to be done to the 17th edition so fiting the new circuits on the RCBO's will be fine.

You will though as it is a new circuit have to bring the bonding upto date to the regs though. Also as it is new circuits you will have to notifiy this, as I assume you are not part of a scheme. This could prove to be rather costly for 2 circuits, well in excess of 100 pounds.

Of course the new circuits will also have to have an EIC with the schedule of inspections and results. This also means you will have to have a calibrated meter, or the LABC will send someone out to test it incurring more expense.

pritch · Jan 10, 2011

So I take it I only need to test the two circuits and include them on the cert not the whole board? Sorry but the last story I was told from a supervisor was that if you introduce new circuits to a installation all of the installation needs bringing up to 17th regs...., guess he was wrong thanks.

malcolmsanford · Jan 10, 2011

He certainly was.

The 17th is not retrospective only the work you do should be to the 17th. As said the only thing that needs upgrading on the original will be the bonding, if it dosen't come up to the 17th and in certain case if replacing the bonding is not feasable ie it's buried in a wall or under floor boards that can't be removed, you can make a risk assement on it and provided there is no sign of damage or burning you can mark it as a deviation. IMO I would change it if possible.