A garden building becomes even more functional when connected to an electricity supply. It even unlocks the potential for you to have a garden office. If you’re thinking of installing power to your shed, log cabin or other garden building, there are some factors you need to keep in mind. Refer to this guide to ensure you maximise its potential.
What Are the Regulations for Electrical Installations in a Garden Room?
Part P outlines the regulations for electrical installations in a garden room. This rule ensures that all electrical work is safe and follows the UK standard BS 7671.
Before starting any electrical work, you need to inform your local authority building control. Or you can hire a registered electrician who is part of a government-approved Part P scheme.
By law, you must be able to show that your electrical work meets these regulations. If not, local authorities may require you to fix or remove any work that doesn’t comply.
How to Connect A Garden Room with Electricity?
Getting the electricity running to your garden room is straightforward. The process usually begins by running an armoured cable from your home’s main electricity supply to your outdoor structure. The cable is then installed underground and connected to an electrical fuse box inside, whether it’s a garden office, log cabin, or summer house.
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Don’t attempt to carry out the job unless you’re a qualified electrician. We recommend hiring a licensed professional to guarantee safety and compliance with local regulations.
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Is It Better to Run Electricity Underground or Overground?
Generally, it’s best to run electricity underground for better safety, although it can be more expensive to install. This is because of the additional labour and material required for digging trenches. Despite the upfront expense, underground wiring reduces the risk of electrical hazards. Plus, it keeps your garden or property clutter-free from exposed wires. A tidy, cable-free garden is much better when you want to enjoy your summer house.
In contrast, overground wiring is the other way; it is quicker to install and more accessible for repairs. However, it may be more susceptible to damage from weather and thus may require more maintenance.
How Much Does It Cost to Add Electricity to a Shed?
The cost of adding electricity to a garden shed depends on your specific needs and preferences. But to give you an idea, the price usually ranges from £500 to £2,000. Of course, this varies based on factors such as the distance from the main supply, the complexity of the installation, and any additional features or upgrades you want.
Hiring a professional also adds up to the overall expenditure. You’ll need to decide whether you’ll pay them an hourly or day rate. Choosing to dig a trench and doing the installation yourself can save you money. However, this can be tedious work. And if you don’t already own the necessary power tools, you’ll need to invest in them, which will increase your expenses.
We hope these considerations help you install electricity in your garden building. It is a job that can greatly increase your enjoyment and usability for your shed, office, summerhouse or log cabin. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, as long as it complies with Part P regulations, you can rest assured that your power supply is safe, making your investment worthwhile.
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