AFDD Q and A

Humm, I'm not sure I follow the logic behind the NICEIC's answer - while I agree that current regs aren't retrospective to the existing installation, they surely do apply to the new work - i.e. the new length of cable and the new socket. I can't see how the addition can be said to comply with the latest regs in such cases if an AFDD wasn't provided. It smacks rather like saying you don't need to correct inadequate or defective main bonding when making an indoors addition that relies on ADS ... because the bonding was part of the existing installation.

   - Andy.

Yes and no!

Earthing and bonding must be adequate for the addition or alteration: 132:16.

More pragmatically, suppose that a customer obtains two quotes. One says that you must have AFDD, the other does not. Which will you choose?

Wouldn’t it make sense to offer two pricing options—one with AFDDs and one without? That way, the client can decide based on their budget and priorities. While AFDDs aren’t a strict requirement, I always explain that they’re recommended (C3 on a EICR) for improving safety. Give the client the information they need to make an informed decision.

You could also go one step further and give options for PVC/PVC T&E vs LS0H.  Caveat time,  there are differences between LSF (Low Smoke and Fume) and LSOH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) cables.  Now LS0H is not a requirement for a domestic dwelling BUT it is safer if used.  Is this not the realm of a designer and for a small operation the Electrician is the Designer/Installer/Commissioner /Tester

You could also go one step further and give options for PVC/PVC T&E vs LS0H.  Caveat time,  there are differences between LSF (Low Smoke and Fume) and LSOH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) cables.  Now LS0H is not a requirement for a domestic dwelling BUT it is safer if used.  Is this not the realm of a designer and for a small operation the Electrician is the Designer/Installer/Commissioner /Tester