NO Earth

[willowandmikey]

I have gone to change a light switch from plastic to chrome and have noticed that the back box is plastic not metal and also that there is only a live and neutral and no earth how would i be able to rectify this ? The rest of the house is fine and was built in the 80's and has the correct sockets as you would expect any help much appreciated.

 

[Adam_151]

If it was built in the 80's then it will have an earth, I'm guessing some ****wit has probably cut it off, you'll have to see if you can draw some slack through on the cable and strip it back, also and very importantly, verify that it has earth continuity, incase they pulled the same trick at the other end

Hope this helps

 

[JohnD]

And you'll have to fit a plastic switch unless/until you can get an earth connection

If the cable is run in plastic oval conduit you may be able to poke an earth wire down it; if it's in capping bit more difficult, if just plastered in impossible without re-chasing. Ate the red/black or red/red in a grey sheathing? If so Adam will be right.

 

[willowandmikey]

Hi guys

Thanks for the prompt response and help yes the muppett had cut the earth wire right back but he did leave enough slack for me to pull it through so many thanks once again it has been much appreciated.