Rewire or Check Continuity?

[Pappa]

Hi guys

 

I'm rewiring my house which has old rubber cable.

I'll be rewiring everything myself and asking Electrician to do the bits that I'm not allowed to do such as consumer unit connections.

There is an extension that was built in the 70's and it looks like it was built with modern PVC cable.

Is it worth replacing this or shall I just check continuity etc and let it be?

I'm not looking for the cheapest option, just the least hassle.

 

Thanks

 

P

[JohnMo]

8 hours ago, Pappa said:

old rubber cable

I would be rewiring, plus all new switches and consumer unit. 

 

8 hours ago, Pappa said:

cheapest

Isn't always the correct thing to do.

[andyscotland]

9 hours ago, Pappa said:

There is an extension that was built in the 70's and it looks like it was built with modern PVC cable.

Is it worth replacing this or shall I just check continuity etc and let it be?

 

If the extension is otherwise not being touched (no plastering, painting etc) then I would start by getting your electrician to inspect & test that part of the installation.

 

PVC cables post the mid-70s that were properly installed and haven't been continuously running at high load can have a very long service life.

 

If the insulation resistance and continuity is "as new", there's no visible damage or deterioration at terminals, and they meet modern requirements (e.g. have a CPC to lighting outlets) then personally I'd consider leaving that part of the installation as-is, at least until you're doing any major renovation/redecorating of the extension.

 

But you will need your electrician to help you make that call both for their experience & knowledge in assessing the existing wiring and because they'll obviously ultimately have to sign off the decision.

 

9 hours ago, Pappa said:

I'll be rewiring everything myself and asking Electrician to do the bits that I'm not allowed to do such as consumer unit connections.

 

Do you already have an electrician lined up? Make sure you do before you start, they will likely want to agree parameters for the bits you're doing and e.g. things like the overall electrical design/cable sizing, locations of wiring routes etc. There are different rules for what you can/can't do in different parts of the UK but ultimately you'll need your electrician to be comfortable with (and clear on) exactly what they are being asked to certify.

[Pappa]

Thanks

The extension is being demolished and rebuilt so I guess I'll just rewire it even if the PVC cable is ok.

Thanks again

P

[andyscotland]

Oh yeah in that case definitely just redo it.

 

You will probably get at least a bit of beer money if you take the cable to a local scrapyard.