I have had an extension built (just the shell), and would like to know what is the score with the wiring.

I am capable of doing it myself (have actually routed it all in the loft prior to fitting loft insulation), leaving just the wire hanging out of all the sockets, but realise the regs changed as from this year.

So will i have to pay somebody to come and connect it up and certify it???

Can i connect it up, and get it checked to get certified???

or do i have any other options???

I was told by the builder that a householder is permitted to make extensions to existing circuits???
Is this true, if so, could i get away with connecting the new extension into the existing ring and lighting circuits???

Hope someone can help......

Cheers

 

you could take a radial spur off the existing ring circuit, altho doing this would be easiest, it would be better to break the ring at a socket close to the extension and extend the ring circuit.

for the lighting circuit, you can take a spur off the existing downstairs lighting circuit with no problems providing the correct cable is used (1mm for 16amp lighting circuit and 2.5mm for 32 amp socket/outlet circuit)

 

so long as there isnt already any spurs coming off that ring....

Best to continue the ring...

I am unsure of the legislation of DIY now. I think it is becoming like gas fitting..needing to be corgi registered...

I would do it myself and get it checked off personally...

 

You can't run a series of spurs off one socket on the ring. You can only have one spur off each socket on the ring and not a series of them off one socket (i.e a radial). Your best bet is to break into the ring. If you have to use a joint box for this, it must be in a permanently accessible position. You only need to pick a main up from the house to do the lights. Make sure you use earth sleeving and brown tape/sleeving on any blue wires which are being used as switch wires. You can connect it yourself but you must get a PART P Certificate from a registered electrical contractor. I believe there is no set fee for a PART P inspection so ask who will charge what before you make the choice. My firm charges Ł40 for a small domestic installation. Hope this helps.

 

You can only put a 10amp max fuse/breaker in for a lighting circuit and i would use 1.5mm not 1mm. Only pennies difference pricewise. Any other probs, just ask mate.

 

Thanks VERY much for the replies

Just out of curiosity.....what does the inspection involve for Part P Cert.???

Will i be able to wire the complete circuit, or will i have to leave parts unconnected to be inspected inside i.e. ceiling roses, light switches etc.

Thanks again, you fella's on here always come up trumps

 

You have PM mate.