Few heritage buildings were built with the need for electricity in mind. The complexities of providing modern services installation within a historic building, therefore, require sympathetic wiring solutions and attention to detail.
With plenty of heritage and listed buildings now being restored, the need for installing modern electrics is high. Here are some answers to frequent questions that occur around electrical work in older properties:
Does heritage electrical work require extra skill?
Yes. Not only does the installation need to be safe and functional, it also needs to respect the original structure and character of the building. New work on the building may also have to comply with statutory requirements such as getting listed building consent.
How can old electrical fittings be retained?
If historic electrical fittings are in place it can be possible to retain them if it is safe to do so. Old electrical work might be concealed in cellars, store rooms and roof spaces or behind skirting boards.
Light fittings designed for candles or gas can frequently be converted to use electricity and supplement modern lighting. An old fuse board may also be capable of accommodating modern circuit breaker interiors.
Are electrical tests needed?
All electrical installations should be inspected, tested and maintained by an electrical contractor. With new systems, every five years is sufficient, but for old, fragile installations an annual inspection is necessary.
Eaton Electrical Ltd specialise in offering bespoke electrical installations in heritage and culturally important buildings. We offer the skills and expertise required to ensure careful and sensitive installation and repair of building services that respond to the need of the building. Eaton Electrical has a proven track record in delivering successful projects on time and on budget.
To find out more about the electrical services for historical buildings that Eaton Electrical can offer, call us today on 01509 414222.
