Upgraded db regulations

[dave992]

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We have came across an upgraded db, the installation about 20 years old, and this db change happened this year.

The db as not been bought up to 18th edition regulations and just been swapped like for like.

We are carrying out a EICR on this db, I understand the db should off had a EIC but this was from another company. Would you code 2 all the non compliance with the 18th edition? No rcd on sockets and no rcd on lights within shower area, remembering the installation 20 years old but just had a new db.

Thanks

 

[Risteard]

The fact that the new work doesn't comply with the 18th Edition shouldn't affect how you code the observations - this is an assessment of the safety (or otherwise) of the installation. So once you've assessed the severity of the non-compliance then which Edition/Amendment of the Regulations was in force at the time really isn't relevant.

 

[pc1966]

In my mind the whole point of the EICR coding is the danger, not if it matches current regulations or not.

I would follow the Best Practice Guide #4 for coding as it is a justifiable stance in all cases (so C2 for lack of RCD only if supplying outside sockets, etc).

EDIT: Just beaten by @Risteard !

 

[pc1966]

The issue of the DB change not being to the current regs is really an issue for the client to address with the electricians who did the work.

 

[westward10]

I never lose sleep over this sort of thing all of us on here, day in day out see recent works done to such a poor non compliant manner that it is par for the course.

 

[littlespark]

Does it count as like for like replacement / maintenance?
Might not have needed a certificate at the time.

 

[DefyG]

Does it count as like for like replacement / maintenance?
Might not have needed a certificate at the time.

Who knows what modifications have been carried out on the installation in the previous 20years (compliant or otherwise).
A replacement DB always requires testing and an EIC in my book, and Part P notification.
Certainly not as simple as changing a 'like for like' light fitting!
Not sure I've ever done a 'like for like' db change as there is always (or seems to be) some upgrade!

 

[littlespark]

I meant, was it just replacement breakers and mainswitch and they called it an “upgrade”