New sockets and switches should according to BS 7671and part M of the building regulations be fixed at a height that will assist people whose reach is limited. This only applies to new builds and does not apply if you are adding to existing wiring in your own home or an extension.
| Before working on any electrical circuit you must ensure that it is isolated correctly and cannot accidentally be switched back on. Please read the article on safe isolation procedures before doing any electrical work. If you are not 100% certain what you are doing call a qualified electrician. Building regulations are changing all the time and modifying your home electrics could be against new rules and could invalidate your home insurance, if in doubt check first! |
In Habitable rooms Sockets need to be a minimum of 450mm from the finished floor level and light switches, doorbells and intercom systems need to be at a maximum height of 1200mm. Any electrical switches, outlets or controls also need to be at least 350mm away from room corners.
These regulations are for new builds only and do not apply to any un-inhabited room such as the Kitchen.
