extension wiring

[daveynez]

hi

Is it acceptable to break into an existing ring main and lighting circuit to feed a new extension to a dining room? the extension will have 2 double sockets and two downlights. Also is a smoke detector required in this? The consumer unit is split with half the circuits covered by a rcd.

 

[electronicsuk]

Is it acceptable to break into an existing ring main and lighting circuit to feed a new extension to a dining room? the extension will have 2 double sockets and two downlights.

That will probably be fine assuming the existing circuits are not at their limit in terms of load/length of wiring, although it's highly likely that the new wiring for both circuits will need to be RCD protected. If your current CU is split load with a single RCD, the lighting will probably be on the non protected side, therefore you might want to consider fitting an RCBO to that circuit.

Also is a smoke detector required in this? The consumer unit is split with half the circuits covered by a rcd.

That's more of a building regs issue. As your extension will almost certainly require approval from building control, it might be best if you ask them.

 

[daveynez]

With regards to testing and signing off the extension, would the tester have to test the circuits added to(ground floor lighting and ground floor sockets, or the whole c.u? And how much wouldn this cost?

 

[17thman]

If you plan to do this work yourself, hopefully you will find it difficult to find an electrician to sign off somebody elses work, unless you leave all wiring visible and also make sure that if you "break into the ring" that you design and install it such that it remains a ring final without more than one spur or with at least a fused spur. there are other requirments

 

[Taylortwocities]

This is not notifiable work.

Yes, of course, as with all electrical work it must be tested and the installer should provide a Minor Works Certificate.

The installer must comply with the requirements of all Building Regulations including Part P. One way of doing this is to install to BS7671.

A smoke alarm is not required.