house wiring to pendant lights

[str]

I sem to have no earth to my ceiling lights or wall switches - the cables are two single core, red insulated wires, with no outer sheaf.

The sockets all have earth, and are in modern cable - ie 3 core with outer sheaf.

Is this an issue for my lights? I don't have any metal fittings, all plastic.

We are having some major work doen later this year, so will have a spark in the house, moving consumer board, etc, so he can check but just want to know what I might be in for!

 

[Steve]

Is it an ex council house?

Can you post up a couple of pictures as examples?

 

[EdwardCurrent]

Hello str

Download the 're-connecting lighting' pdf.

http://www.elecsa.org.uk/common/downloads/downloads.aspx


I hope this is of some help.

Regards

Ed

 

[str]

no, not ex-council - circa 100 yrs old, as I said has been rewired in the past

The light wiring is all in metal conduit if that makes a difference?

will get a picture on

 

[Steve]

The light wiring is all in metal conduit if that makes a difference?

Ah-ha! Good. This should provide an earth BUT get it tested before relying on it. If a visual check shows all joints are ok etc, then it should be fine.

You'll only have two reds at the switches, because these are live and switched live. You'll only have a switched live and one or 2 neutrals at each fitting.

 

[str]

so, by the sounds of it I should be okay if the metal conduit is still in decent condition? I will get the spark to do a full check in any event

thanks

 

[Taylortwocities]

Unless your consumer unit is less than 2 years old it will very likely need updating or changing as part of the new works.

If changing the board, your electrician should firstly do a Periodic Inspection Report. If done properly, this will highlight and issues such as missing earths.

Also see this useful best practise guide: http://www.esc.org.uk/pdfs/business-and-community/electrical-industry/BPG1_08.pdf