can i add another socket to a spur on a ring main (uk electricity)?

Question

ive got a double plug socket, on my downstairs ring main, which has only one 3 core wire entering, so i know its a spur, off the ring...can i extend this by adding another single socket?

Well done Gary.b......the only correct, and very well informed answer.
I asked this question, to illustrate the low quality of answers in general, (as an example in another question) BUT Gary b has proved me wrong.
On behalf of those who try to use Q&A seriously, those fed up with it, and those just wondering if you can get proper answers on it....THANK you, Gary.b.
(you will of course get best answer.)
This question will be archived by yahoo, so people searching will find Gary's answer.

Answer 1

Firstly the first 5 answers are incorrect.
Part P is a building regulation.
A new circuit
Work in a increased risk zone, IE Kitchen, bathroom or exterior to the equipotential zone, IE shed or garden.
Changing a fuse-board.
These are all covered by Part P.
Minor works are not.
changing faceplate's,
changing a single cable in a circuit, like for like.
light fitment
etc. Except in an increased risk zone.

The actual term for the cable is 2 core and earth, T&E
On a ring, under normal cicumstances this is bad practice, and under IEE BS7671 rule is against regulations. These regulations are none statutory, and therefor only a guide to follow. Having said that, in the event of injury, and or death due to a fault on this circuit, the IEE BS7671 would be used to show neglegance on behalf of the electrician.

Your choices are
1. bring both sockets into the ring.
2. Use a fused spur unit before sockets of the ring
3. leave alone and spur of from another socket in the ring main

Answer 2

You are only allowed one socket unit on a spur from the ring main, but unlimited sockets actually on the ring. This is because electricity is supplied to any ring sockets from both directions, but only from one for a spur socket. The reason you use a socket to attach the spur to is simply to spare the expense of a junction box and the upheaval to the decor. You still need easy access to the junction box to check for faults or to investigate overheating there. Make sure that the junction boxes are correctly rated - ideally 20A or 30A (the value of the fuse or trip of the ring main circuit). It is also better not to break the ring circuit if you can - just strip the wire rather than cut it. Also make sure that any work you do is either tested by a qualified electrician or it was done more than two years ago if anyone asks.

Answer 3

Not really.
As for the new regs. You only need part p certificate if the instal is in a kitchen, bathroom or outside.
For a single spur etc you are fine.
A rewire requires you to be part p because it involves bathroom/kitchen. Or ou can do rewire and have it checked y the council.

Answer 4

Well you can of course but I don't think it is recommended and under the new legislation you should be a qualified electrician if you are going to do it yourself

Answer 5

yes you can add another double socket if you want to........part p only really applies to bathrooms and kitchens

Answer 6

If you get it part P certified (new regs)