I was recently talking to a friend about his house that he proposes to rent. This was built in the 60's, but has been fitted with a possibly 16th edition distribution board (MCB's and a single RCD).
He was told by the letting agency that it would have to have the lighting circuit completly re-wired as there were no earths to the switch boxes. Additionally it was an ex-council property that had been built by direct labour, and does not use loop-in ceiling roses, but a BICC adaptable (plastic) box and "screwit" porcelain connectors (lighting circuit upstairs).

Earths could easily be run to the ceiling roses; but what about the use of switchplates with securing screw caps? Does this cover the insulation requirements without the need for running earth leads?

Also any thoughts on the "junction box" greatly appreciated..

Many thanks, Ed Dinning

A "universal" joint box instead of loop-in, in principle, is fine (probably an advantage if "decorative" light fittings are used which often lack proper loop-in facilities) - other than the usual caveats about accessibility (e.g. if covered by laminate flooring). Screwits are certainly old school, but easy enough to replace with "modern" terminal strips (or even the newly fashionable push terminals) if anyone's really bothered.

Screw caps on switches (or nylon screws etc) - are a bit of a half-a-job to my mind. All it needs is a bit of damp or condensation and a an untouchable but live back box results in "live wall" - so not really a huge step forward over unearthed (presuming the accessories are insulating).

If the wiring is really that old, I'm maybe thinking it's had its time anyway - (are there really enough sockets about for modern living, is the kitchen really adequately served by sharing a ring with the rest of the house, are the accessories still serviceable?) But it might be alright - it depends on the details.


I'm not sure where the compulsion comes from ... I dare say every rented house isn't upgraded every time the wiring regs are "improved" - where do "they" draw the line?

- Andy.

As far as i am aware there is no requirement for the electrical system in a rented property to be to any standard or indeed be tested.

However the landlord has a duty of care to his/her tenants, if there was to be a problem it would be his head on the block or whoever advised him (if in a professional capacity).

you can use plastic screws for face plates, obviously he will have to make sure the tenants don't change any fittings.

Unless the place is in tip top condition i suspect he will be tarting it up to get a good rental price, if this is the case i would probably rewire it and then its done. he could then fit some fancy lights and face plates to make it a bit smarter, remind him that works done to improve it for rental can be offset against tax.

Personally i would want a satisfactory eicr before any tenants moved in with at least tests and screw tightness done at every point. Should not take long in a 60's council house. Then the risk is passed on to the tester.

As for the junction box its up to you to decide if they present a risk or not and advise you friend, any signs of poor connection? how did the circuit test?

-------------------------
Vince

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