Warehouse wiring

Question

I'm converting a warehouse that was an exhibition space into a trampoline park. 

Need to:
- Replace twenty flouro tube lights with LED equivalents 
- Move six plug sockets 6 inches to the left (currently surface mounted with cabling encased in trunking) 

Contractor says we need to rip out wiring and start from scratch because:
- Current wire is a grey twin and earth that causes excess smoke and is only suitable for domestic.
- Current wiring is attached to redundant old pipework and ceiling trusses (4mtrs off the ground) by cable ties.
- Some back office wiring is surface mounted and not running inside trunking. 

He says  “even if our electricians test everything and it is ok, if it doesn't meet regs Building Control may not accept it due to the extent of install you are carrying out they may request everything is replaced"

Sound like it is necessary or could the existing wiring remain? Site was certified safe with Napit Electrical Installation report in 2018

Ta

Darren · Accepted Answer

The contractor is trying to generate unnecessary work and ripping out cable unnecessarily is a waste of time and resources. 
Is there a level of smoke that is acceptable in a domestic scenario but not in a commercial scenario?

Matthew · Answer

It would depend on change of use and if your were going through building control. Without seeing the extent of the wiring and doing a condition report. Some bits may be able to be retained and some might need upgrading. The contractor would want to use LSF ( low smoke, low fume ) cabling. It sounds like your contractor is right to question some of the existing wiring.

Darren · Answer

Without a survey it is difficult to say but all cables should be enclosed in steel trunking and tube. Cables should be LSF low smoke and fume and supported with correct containment. 
Replacing lighting with LED will obviously half current lighting running costs. Another condition to think about is emergency lighting in the building to comply with building control.

Regards Darren 

Allstar lighting solutions

Kevin · Answer

I need to see the location to fully answer this problem.

Seyit Soner · Answer

Hi there.this is a very complicated situation. It would be good to have a professional come and see and then guide you.

Warehouse wiring

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