Hi,
First post, so forgive me if this is is the wrong area... although have used the forum for research/tips frequently in the past!
I recently purchased a 2-bedroom ground floor flat in a converted Victorian terrace in SW London, with a view to doing a complete refurbishment (including full re-wire). The property was converted in late 80's/early 90's and it would appear that the electrics were not done 'properly' at the time.
The main supply from the street is a single-phase supply and is located in our (ground floor flat) basement. I have been told that this would have been adequate when it was a single house but, now that it has been converted into two flats, it does not comply with regulations for two reasons:
I have contacted UK Power Networks, who have told me that they can come and assess the site to give an estimate of costs for fitting a second, independent electricity supply for the upstairs flat. They have given me a number over the phone of £4,000-£5,000.
I am awaiting confirmation from the upstairs flat owner as to whether or not they have their own fuse box, although I do know that they are metered and billed separately.
What options do I have in this situation... do I just have to bite the bullet and pay for a second supply? Or, if they confirm that they have their own fuse box, could an electrician turn off the power to my flat using our fuse box and carry out the work required?
Am just trying to see if there are alternatives, as forking out £5,000 on the electrics wasn't included as part of my refurb budget!!
Many thanks in advance
First post, so forgive me if this is is the wrong area... although have used the forum for research/tips frequently in the past!
I recently purchased a 2-bedroom ground floor flat in a converted Victorian terrace in SW London, with a view to doing a complete refurbishment (including full re-wire). The property was converted in late 80's/early 90's and it would appear that the electrics were not done 'properly' at the time.
The main supply from the street is a single-phase supply and is located in our (ground floor flat) basement. I have been told that this would have been adequate when it was a single house but, now that it has been converted into two flats, it does not comply with regulations for two reasons:
- Because the upstairs flat cannot access the main fuse
- Because we are unable to turn off the supply to one flat without also turning off supply for the other
I have contacted UK Power Networks, who have told me that they can come and assess the site to give an estimate of costs for fitting a second, independent electricity supply for the upstairs flat. They have given me a number over the phone of £4,000-£5,000.
I am awaiting confirmation from the upstairs flat owner as to whether or not they have their own fuse box, although I do know that they are metered and billed separately.
What options do I have in this situation... do I just have to bite the bullet and pay for a second supply? Or, if they confirm that they have their own fuse box, could an electrician turn off the power to my flat using our fuse box and carry out the work required?
Am just trying to see if there are alternatives, as forking out £5,000 on the electrics wasn't included as part of my refurb budget!!
Many thanks in advance