Moving a consumer unit

[wayneward25]

I need to move a consumer unit onto the opposite side of a wall where it is currently situated. The circuit wiring will all be cut shorter so no extensions to the circuits will need to be added. The consumer unit is a plastic one in good condition. The lighting circuit is earthed but not to the switch's. All circuits are rcd protected.

Can I move the existing unit or does it need to be a new metal one?

Can the consumer unit be moved without upgrading the earth to all the switch's?

 

[Doggit]

Are the switches metal or plastic, and what are the back boxes. Technically, as you're moving the consumer unit, it should be upgraded to a metal one.

 

[sparkwright]

The main problem here is probably 'How are you going to extend the supply cable to feed the consumer unit?'

Chances are there are tails from the meter or supply cut-out, which feed the consumer unit.

In most cases these tails should only be 3 metres long. Longer may require a switch fuse unit near the meter/cut-out end.

Pictures would be useful here, this isn't really a typical DIY job.

 

[wayneward25]

Thanks for the replies. The switch's are plastic back box's are metal. The tails will be cut shorter because it will be closer to the main fuse. I literally want to move it 4 inch's

 

[wayneward25]

Just to add there is already a cut out switch by the main fuse

 

[deadshort]

If you retain the plastic light switches and add a warning notice at the CU noting the lack of an earth at switches.
If i was relocating the CU i would replace it with metal, you are re terminating all the circuits which is the biggest part of the job why not replace now? You may be able to buy a replacement enclosure for the existing? If you have a rcd main switch, i would defiantly upgrade.

Regards,

DS

 

[ban-all-sheds]

I need to move a consumer unit onto the opposite side of a wall where it is currently situated.

Do you intend applying for Building Regulations approval?