socket heights

[CSP2012]

Hey guys.
Is there any regs for distance between sockets and windows? I know that its 450 to the bottom and 120 to the top but never really come across the question of near windows...?
Thanks

 

[Guitarist]

No, just common sense.

 

[CSP2012]

Didnt think there would be and couldn't see anything obvious...
Thanks

 

[telectrix]

as long as the cable/s are in safe zones, wherever you want. bear in mind that the 450-1200 rule applies only to new build.

 

[CSP2012]

Thanks. They want it all up to current regs for disabilities etc. it is an old pub and they have purchased it and converting to a house. The question was raised about windows and its something ive never been asked before so had a quick look and couldnt find anything. In a kitchen Is it still 1200? Even with a 900 work top?

 

[Sintra]

150mm above the work top is the norm not 300mm

 

[telectrix]

150mm above the work top is the norm not 300mm

but that's to the bottom of the socket, i think.

 

[Octopus]

Its its a rewire you can stick them, within reason, where you want. You are allowed to use common sense!

 

[chrish_1977]

A conversion is not classed as new build so put your sockets and switches at whatever height you want

 

[ian.settle1]

Out of curiosity why didi you ask this question?

 

[CSP2012]

I understand its not a new build but they have requested for heights of sockets and switches to meet new build regs. They have asked the question as a new window is being cut in. I follow the general rule of 150 above work top as it sits better for tiling. Eventhough there is that many different size tiles out there now a days

 

[chrish_1977]

It's not building regs it's dda

 

[GLENNSPARK]

A conversion is not classed as new build so put your sockets and switches at whatever height you want

no...and neither is a new extention to an existing property

 

[Stroppy]

Isn't it 1200 to the centre?

 

[clicon357]

Part M of the Building Regs, page 69:

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/br/BR_PDF_ADM_2004.pdf

Then minimum of 150mm from centre-line of socket to top of worktop which will put the bottom of the socket about 100mm above the worktop - any lower and the "worry" is that it will force the cable on the plug into too tight a radius etc.

As to how close to a window then one consideration is that if too close you might end up breaking the corner of the reveal off when chopping the box out! Then you might find you're cutting through the plasterer's galvanised angle bead.

 

[CSP2012]

My first fix boxes are in place. The walls being thermal boarded so not chopping. Which is always a bonus!
Thanks

 

[Guitarist]

no...and neither is a new extention to an existing property

Indeed. I wish more architects realised this, when drawing up the spec for extensions.