Is it illegal to have a fuse box in the bathroom?

It does not comply with BS 7671 wiring regulations, which prohibit switchgear in bathroom zones. While not illegal for an existing installation per se, it would fail an EICR and must be corrected during any upgrade or alteration work.

Where should a consumer unit be located?

Ideally in a dry, accessible location such as a hallway, utility room, or dedicated cupboard. It should be at a height that is easy to access (typically 1.35m–1.45m from the floor) and should not be in a bathroom, kitchen, or bedroom if avoidable.

Will my landlord have to move it?

If an EICR identifies the location as unsatisfactory, the landlord is legally required to carry out the remedial work within 28 days (or as specified by the inspector). This would include relocating the consumer unit.

Can the DNO help with this?

The DNO owns the meter and service cable. If the consumer unit relocation requires longer meter tails or moving the meter, the DNO must be involved. They charge for this work separately.

High risk

Updated 30 August 2026

Fuse Box In The Bathroom: Is It Legal?

Your fuse box or consumer unit is located in the bathroom: a potentially dangerous and non-compliant situation.

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What's happening?

Having a consumer unit in a bathroom is extremely unusual and almost certainly does not comply with BS 7671 wiring regulations. Bathrooms are classified as special locations due to the presence of water, and electrical installations in bathrooms must follow strict zoning rules. A consumer unit in a bathroom would be exposed to moisture and humidity, increasing the risk of electrical failure and electric shock. This arrangement was occasionally found in older conversions, bedsits, and HMOs.

What usually causes it?

Property was converted into flats and the only available space was in the bathroom
Old bedsit or HMO layout where meter and board were squeezed into available space
Poor-quality conversion work that did not comply with regulations
Building layout was changed after the consumer unit was installed
Bathroom was extended into the area where the consumer unit was originally located

Is it dangerous?

Yes, this is dangerous. Water and electricity are a lethal combination. A consumer unit in a bathroom is exposed to steam, moisture, splashes, and humidity, all of which can cause corrosion, tracking, and electrical failure. The risk of electric shock when operating the board is significantly higher in a wet environment. This arrangement should be remedied as a priority.

Can I fix it myself?

No. Relocating a consumer unit is major electrical work that must be carried out by a qualified electrician. It involves working with the incoming supply, which requires coordination with the DNO. Do not attempt to weatherproof or enclose a bathroom-located consumer unit as a workaround.

When should you call an electrician?

Call an electrician as soon as possible if your consumer unit is in a bathroom. This is a non-compliant and dangerous arrangement that needs to be resolved. The electrician will advise on relocating the board to a suitable location.

What will the electrician actually do?

Assess the current location and plan a new, compliant position for the consumer unit
Coordinate with the DNO if the meter tails need extending
Relocate the consumer unit to an appropriate location (typically a hallway or cupboard)
Extend or reroute cables as necessary
Test the entire installation and issue an Electrical Installation Certificate
Notify Building Control of the change