Moving a light switch

[teddyman5]

I need to move a light switch about 6 to 8 inches to one side.What\\\'s the best way to do this a) if there is enough slack cable and b) if the cable needs extending.

 

[Steve]

The best way is to remove the whole cable and rechase it to the new switch.

Any L-shape deviations in the run will cause the cable not to be in safe zones, and at risk of being drilled through.

 

[teddyman5]

I really don't want to have to do that and cause problems with the decoration and what would happen if the cable wasn't long enough?

 

[Steve]

. . . replace the cable. Why do you want to move the switch?

It would be acceptable to fit a blanking plate where the existing switch is, and make the joint to extend the cable here. And the cable would still be in safe zones then. Safe zones run directly horizontal and vertical from any accessory.

 

[teddyman5]

My wife wants to put up an 'arch' to make our dining area off the lounge a more definite space and the switch is in the way.If I come off horizontally from the existing switch is it OK to wallpaper over the existing 'hole' and how should I block it off?
Also if the cable isn't long enough is it permissible to use a joint block in the existing switch space?
Thanks again

 

[teddyman5]

Can I blank it off in such a way as to make it flush with the existing wall so it can be papered over?

 

[davy_owen_88]

Can I blank it off in such a way as to make it flush with the existing wall so it can be papered over?

No, as Steve mentioned, the safe zones are horizontally and vertically from any accessory. If you can't see the accessory the safe zones do not exist and cables can not be run there without additional mechanical protection.

 

[Steve]

Heres a colourful diagram.

You can clearly see that to go left and then upwards is NOT in a safe zone.