On 2007-08-20 10:52:44 +0100, said:

Group,

I'm aware of the regulations that don't allow you to put light
switches high up where young children can't reach them, but require
them to be at a level where visiting wheelchair users can switch
lights on and off to their heart's content. I believe power points
have to be slightly higher than was typical in older properties.

What do the regulations say concerning an extension to an existing
(1950s) house? Can I (or a suitable part-P qualified electrician) put
the light switches and power points at whatever height I want in the
extension (e.g. at the same height as in the original house), or do
they have to be at the new regulated height?

Cheers,
David.

First point is that part P does not specify height of sockets, although
BS7671 (aka Wiring Regulations) does have things to say about cable
routings, especially when hidden.


The reference to socket heights is in part M of the Building
Regulations - in connection with access etc.

You are not required to put sockets at the specified heights in an
extension to an existing building as long as it doesn't make the
overall situation "worse" from the access perspective. In other words
if the existing building has sockets at part M heights, you have to do
the same in an extension, but not if they aren't.