Outbuildings Electrical

Question

We're about to complete on a new build property, and having taken a quick look around there is no consumer unit in the garage which I would have expected.  I've read conflicting information on whether this is or is not a requirement.  What would a general take be?

Richard · Answer

Hi Graham. You will have a consumer unit somewhere in the property, but not necessarily in the garage. I work on new build properties from time to time, and the design / position of the consumer unit can be illogical on some houses. ie. meter box on the side of garage and consumer unit fitted at the other side of the house under the stairs! Makes no sense, but that's new build for you.

Michael · Answer

Outbuildings, garages are all required to have their own fuse board or consumer unit under the BS7671 regulations

Alan · Answer

Is the garage attached to the house or separate unattached?

Savy · Answer

It depends on for what purpose you would like to use the garage for. If you are using garage for a storage then you won't need a consumer unit installed. If you want to use your garage for a spare room/charging electrical vehicle thr probably is a good idea to get a consumer unit installed

Michael · Answer

Power supplied to your outbuilding comes directly from your mains power supply, a trench is dug to the outbuilding and a power cable (generally a steel wire armored cable) is installed. A consumer unit is then installed to regulate and protect the circuit within the outbuilding.

Please note that supplying electricity from your house to an exterior building is something that should never be attempted without the right expertise and qualifications.

Karol · Answer

In the UK, the requirement for a consumer unit (commonly known as a fuse box or distribution board) in a garage depends on several factors, including the intended use of the garage and the design and wiring regulations in place at the time of construction. Here's a general overview:

Residential Use: If the garage is solely for residential use, such as storing vehicles or household items, it may not require a dedicated consumer unit. In many cases, electrical circuits in the garage can be connected to the main consumer unit in the house.

Non-Residential Use: If the garage is intended for non-residential use, such as a home office, workshop, or a separate living space (e.g., a granny annex), it typically requires its own consumer unit. This is to ensure proper electrical separation and safety.

Wiring Regulations: The wiring regulations in the UK are outlined in the "Wiring Regulations" document (BS 7671), commonly known as the IET Wiring Regulations. These regulations are periodically updated, and it's essential to ensure that the electrical installation in your garage complies with the latest version of these regulations.

Building Regulations: Building regulations may also play a role in determining the electrical requirements for a garage. These regulations can vary depending on the location and type of property.

Local Authority: Local building authorities or councils may have specific requirements or guidelines for garages in your area, so it's a good idea to check with them as well.

Given the potentially conflicting information and the specific circumstances of your new build property, I recommend consulting with a qualified electrician or electrical inspector. They can assess your garage's intended use, the wiring in place, and any applicable regulations to provide you with a definitive answer and guidance on any necessary electrical installations.

It's essential to ensure that any electrical work carried out in your new build property, including the garage, meets all safety and regulatory standards to protect your property and occupants.

Adrian · Answer

a lot of new builds only supply a 13 amp supply from a fcu

Darren · Answer

It is not a requirement to have a consumer unit in a garage but if structure is safe and cable application meets current regulation requirements then it is safe to install.

Jack · Answer

What’s the requirements for a garage board? Usually added at a later time when customer decides they require a hot tub supply / outdoor lighting / sockets and so on…….

Richard · Answer

Power needs and money are the two big factors in this scenario. Considering its a new build project, I would say money is the only factor. 
You can simply install a single socket in the garage which takes its feed from the consumer unit in the house. From there you can use a 3 amp spur to power the lights. You don't need or have to install a small consumer unit in the garage. However this method limits you from most upgrades in the future such as car charger etc/

Outbuildings Electrical

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