Consumer units

[Mattman]

Hi guys.

Just need pulling into check on this one. I’ve been asked to wire an extension including new lights and sockets and SD’s ran from existing circuits in the house.

Now his mains was fitted in ‘15; a split load RCD mains, located in a hallway of plastic construction.

I’ve always understood that any consumer unit of plastic construct located in a hallway, final exit or combustible cupboard is a C2 issue, anything outside of that is C3. While I’m not running in new circuits I’m under the impression that any aspect of the circuit I affect from the mains to the final accessory must be up to current standard so am I right in thinking that I should advise it be upgraded or that I install a small sub-main that is within regs and provide new circuits from it.

 

[DefyG]

No not necessarily, text from Best Practice Guide 4 Iss 5. (C3) - Is it sole escape route, are connections satisfactory (ie no evidence of burning/loose)? There may be other issue though eg IP rating that may also be considered!
• Presence of a consumer unit or similar switchgear made from combustible material (e.g. plastic) that is not inside a noncombustible enclosure and which is: - Located under wooden staircase, or - within a sole route of escape from the premises (Note: If unsatisfactory connections are found during inspection, this would warrant a code C2 classification to be recorded)

 

[westward10]

Don't worry about it as long as it is safe for continued use, by safe meaning it is still of sound construction and all terminations are good.

 

[mattg4321]

Plastic consumer unit in good condition is c3 at worst.

Crack on. I add circuits to plastic consumer units in ‘escape routes’ all the time.