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Electrical

Is it safe to run a mains cable across a cupboard threshold?

Anonymous user 15/03/2024 - 2.31 PM

In our near-complete loft conversion, there is an eaves storage space, accessed by two low doors. An electrical cable, I guess part of the socket circuit, runs through the eaves space behind the wall, resting on the floor. This means that it crosses the two low doorways, lying on the floor just inside. I've heard that worn or damaged cable is an electrical or especially fire hazard and I'm worried that in using the eaves storage - eg crawling into it or sliding boxes or other items into it, over the cable - the cable will become damaged and unsafe. I've suggested to the builder (currently not on site) that the cable be re-routed (it could go above the doorways or under the floor, I guess) and he said he'd look but sounded a bit sceptical. Is it normal to route mains cable like this and can I stop worrying, or is this a problem and what can I say to get the builder to fix it? Edit: Thanks IR. It is all new wiring up there, and was done by an electrician I'm told. I'll ask them to put it right - should I get a certificate of some sort?

Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?

1 Answer

Internal Repairs

Rating: 5 out of 5
Epsom
No it is not normal for cables to be readily accessible in this way and vulnerable to impact and disturbance. If it is a new circuit then they should be RCD protected and run in prescribed zones. If they are existing circuits and you have changed the use of the area they are in then I guess normal building regulations would apply to their position and arrangement. An electrician could advise you where they should go and supply an installation certificate if they need to be moved.
Answered10 March 2016
1