Plug Socket Heights??

[huw169]

Hi all
What are the current height restrictions on plug socket heights?
I've been told 450-1200mm from the floor - no exceptions.
Is this correct as it seems high. Is it for people in wheel chairs as I can't see it being for any other reason?
Thanks
Huw

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

Generally for new builds in habitable rooms.
People with restricted reach

 

[huw169]

Ahh - found the answer as soon as i'd posted
Thanks anyway.
Huw

 

[ericmark]

The heights you are domestic for non domestic starts at 400mm.

 

[LiamPope]

I've implemented the 450 - 1200mm heights for all sockets and switches on my renovation/rewire. Have gotten used to them and have to say i much prefer them now, especially the light switch height which i initially thought looked stupidly low. Just bend my arm forwards at the elbow and there's the switch - perfect!

Liam

 

[ericmark]

I got in trouble in my mothers house for mounting the thermostat too low should be 1200 to 1400mm but she is in wheel chair so I mounted at her eye hight. But once the building inspector realised she was disabled then all objections seemed to melt away.

I have also had arguments over socket heights in bed rooms as too low I had set so they would be under the hight of main bed so if pushed against the wall the bed would not damage the sockets. Again once pointed out that to lift sockets would not comply with BS7671 regulations objections were dropped.

So I would say if you have any valid reasons for not following the Part M building regulations you can normally deviate but not if it is just for a whim.

 

[huw169]

Many thanks for the comments.
Will bear that in mind as I'm chasing each position.

I'm doing a full rewire to an old house, so not all light switches will be moved, but all the downstairs sockets will be repositioned.

Prentice - you were fast off the mark!!!!

Many thanks
Huw

 

[ban-all-sheds]

I'm doing a full rewire to an old house

In that case Part M does not apply. There's a general requirement not to make things worse, but if accessories are not at the guideline heights you don't have to move them.