Adding habitable space in the roof changes the electrical picture in more than one way. There is new load, new cable routing through an already-finished house, and interlinked fire detection that has to cover the whole escape route rather than just the new room.
Capacity and new circuits
A new floor usually justifies its own lighting and socket circuits rather than extending existing ones. That means board capacity has to be checked early — if the consumer unit is full, that decision belongs at the start of the project, not the end.
Fire detection and escape
Loft conversions typically require mains-powered, interlinked detection covering the stair and landing route. This is coordinated with your building control body, and we will install and certify to what is agreed for your specific project.
Routing without wrecking the house
Getting cable from the board to the top of the house through finished rooms is the difficult part. We look for cupboard routes, existing risers and stair voids first. Where chasing is unavoidable we agree it before starting.
Common questions
- Will my consumer unit need upgrading?
- Only if it lacks capacity or suitable protection. We check before the build starts.
- Who decides the detection specification?
- It is agreed with building control for the project; we install to that specification.
- When do you need access?
- First fix before plasterboard, second fix after decoration.
- Do you work with loft conversion contractors?
- Yes, coordinating directly with the main contractor's programme.
Share the drawings and building control details and we will scope the electrical package.
Related guides
- Rewiring During a Renovation, How to Sequence ItA renovation is the cheapest time a house will ever be rewired.
- What Drives the Cost of a House RewireA rewire is priced on access and disruption far more than on cable.
- Electrics for Working From HomeMost home offices were bedrooms, and bedrooms were wired for a lamp and an alarm clock.