Advice on Moving a Light Switch and Wiring Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[jr200uk]

Hi,

I had an electrician around my house today, and wasn't sure if what he said was correct.

I have a light switch, which I would like to get moved to another part of the same plasterboard wall. My understanding is I need a single wire from the ceiling rose to the location of the new switch, as mains power would feed the ceiling rose directly. I thought this could be done with a magnet and fish-wire.

The electrician told me instead the mains power is fed to the ceiling rose via the light switch. So he would have to run 2 new wires: from the ceiling rose to the light switch, and from the old light switch to the new light switch (for the mains power). I was also told only way it can be done is by breaking up the the plasterboard from where my current switch is, following this path, to the new location, then plastering over.

I've taken a photo of the wiring inside the light switch. Can someone confirm if what he said is correct? Does the mains power go via the light switch in my system?

[Mr White]

Your thoughts are for how most domestic lighting circuits used to be done. (Loop in at rose)
In more recent times the thought is to use the switch as a junction box. (Loop in at switch) This also makes it easier for you if you want to change to a "smart switch" at a later date.
You have loop at switch (Which is why you have so many cables)
If what you thought was true, in your case you would only have ONE cable at the light switch, you have three.

Also, chances are the wall is full of insulation material, not to mention cross members to give support, so yes in short, in your case the electrician you asked is correct.