Electrical Safety for Rural Aberdeenshire Properties: Earthing, Storms and Outbuildings

Out in Aberdeenshire, electrical installations can be a long way from the main road, a long way from the nearest substation and a long way from a quick fix. A little preparation makes a difference.

Earthing on rural supplies

Not every property gets an earth connection from the supplier. Some rural homes use an earth electrode, usually a rod in the ground, which is known as a TT system. These need RCD protection and regular testing, because the ground itself can change with the seasons. If you are not sure what type of earthing your property has, an electrical inspection will tell you.

RCD protection

Residual current devices cut the power very quickly if a fault sends current where it should not go. They matter everywhere, but particularly in damp, dusty or animal-housing areas such as barns and workshops. If your consumer unit has no RCD protection, upgrading it is one of the most worthwhile safety improvements for any older property.

Outbuildings, sheds and barns

Supplies to outbuildings need to be correctly protected, armoured or otherwise suitably installed, and isolated from the main building where appropriate. Farm and agricultural buildings have additional rules in BS 7671 because of damp, animals and corrosive conditions. If you are running a supply to a shed, garage or workshop, it is a job for a qualified electrician.

Storms, overhead lines and power cuts

Storms bring down overhead lines and can cause surges as power is lost and restored. Surge protection at the consumer unit helps protect sensitive electronics. If you rely on a generator, it should be connected through a properly installed changeover arrangement so it cannot back-feed the network. Report network faults to your distribution network operator, not to an electrician.

How often should a rural property be tested?

Landlords need an EICR at least every five years. Owner-occupiers are not legally required to have one, but older properties, farms and anything with outbuildings benefit from an inspection every ten years or when buying a house. Our guide on how long an EICR lasts has the detail.

Getting help in Aberdeenshire

We are based in Oldmeldrum and cover villages and farms across Aberdeenshire. Contact us if you would like an inspection, a consumer unit upgrade or advice on a new outbuilding supply.