Our Voltimum Experts answer your questions on a daily basis in our Technical Expertise area. This Question of the Day concerns a Scottish church hall and old wiring. It is answered by SELECT:
The test results were good, but part of the installation is wired in VIR non-double insulated cables and there is no earth sleeving at any point. Also, the consumer unit is re-wirable type and is well over 35 years old.
My main concern is that, although in a locked cupboard, the live terminals on the main incomer are exposed and VIR cables come from the main incomer to the meter.
Is it the responsibility of the consumer to contact the supply company to upgrade the mains? Also, because of the age of the wiring, should the hall be rewired?
Answer? The exposed live terminals at the mains is concerning, and I would strongly recommend that your client contacts the distributor (possibly Scottish Power) and requests some remedial work. The VIR meter tails perhaps also should be replaced.
The decision to re-wire the church depends on the report based on inspection and test results. Perhaps the client should be advised to budget for this.
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