Recently moved into a new home in need of updating. The kitchen is particularly 80's kitsch!
Anyway the CU (old pull-out socket type) is currently inside a wall unit. It doesn't take much space and is reasonably accessible. Looking to replace this with a modern MCB unit (by proper electrician, I know my limits!) but wondering about location. I'm believe regs for new build require Part M accessibility to the CU but there's nowhere we could achieve this other than have it between worktop and wall units.
Is there any reason not to have it in a new wall unit, same location? Or could we possibly move it above the wall unit (although this would need a step for access).
And are there any slimline units available which would take minimum space if it does stay in the cupboard?
Yes, you can leave it in the same place.
Building Regs only apply to new build/extensions and major refurbs.
Slimline?
You mean not wide?
You then need to have an all RCBO board.
It depends on how many circuits you have, and are likely to need in the future.
These from Screwfix and Toolstation are good value:
Screwfix CU.
Be aware, RCBO's are stupidly expensive from some electrical wholesalers, (£25+ each), so if you get a quote from a sparky, point out these 2 CU's an their price.
Building Regs only apply to new build/extensions and major refurbs.
The replacement of a consumer unit is notifiable work.
Why would it's being inside a wall unit make it inaccessible?
If it was tight to work with you could make the unit easily removable with a French cleat or such.
The replacement of a consumer unit is notifiable work.
Is this clash of the sparky giants..... I know alanl is a sparky what's your qualifications
Building Regs only apply to new build/extensions and major refurbs.
The replacement of a consumer unit is notifiable work.
I should have made that clearer, yes, all work is subject to Building Regs, , and changing a Consumer Unit is notifiable in England and Wales, (not sure about Scotland, it never used to be).
You only need to fully comply with Part M if you are doing a new build, extension or a substantial change in the building.
If you are changing an existing unit, you can leave it in its original position, so long as access isnt any worse than before.
Thats why you wont see sockets being moved higher, and light switches dropped to below 1500mm from the floor when an house is rewired, which again is a Notifiable job.
The guidelines for Part M show sockets at a height of 450mm, wall switched at 1200-1500mm etc. These are just guides.
There is no point in making a house totally compliant if you need to go up 20 steps to get to the front door which is 600mm wide, as, clearly, no one in a wheelchair could ever practically get in.
Another thing in Part M is partially sighted people. I have never seen a contrasting coloured socket outlet in a house. Plenty in offices and colleges, but it just isnt done in houses. Part M is a good thing, but it needs to be used sensibly.
