Short answer
I am allowed to move the consumer unit, but the connection with the meter belongs to the grid operator and you have to apply for that separately. It usually happens in two steps: first preparing the new location with all the circuits, then the appointment with the grid operator to move the meter. Expect weeks between application and execution.
Who this article is for Anyone renovating with a meter cupboard in an awkward place. This is a job with two parties and therefore a schedule.
Two parts, two parties
The connection point with the meter belongs to the grid operator. It is sealed and nobody else touches it. Moving it means an application, a quote from them and an appointment.
Everything to the left of the consumer unit belongs to the grid operator.
The consumer unit and everything after it is yours, and that is my part. I can move it whenever it suits.
In many homes those two are in the same cupboard, which makes it look like one job.
The order that hurts least
- Decide on the new location and check that it is suitable: accessible, not in a wet room, enough space to work.
- Submit the application to the grid operator, because that has the longest lead time.
- I prepare the new location: new consumer unit, all circuits extended to it, test report.
- The grid operator moves the meter and connects it to the new unit.
- Old unit out and the wall closed.
Doing step 3 before step 4 is the whole point: then you are not without power for days.
Where the new unit can go
- accessible without having to go through a bedroom or a crawl space
- not in a wet room and not in a storeroom full of things
- enough working space in front of it, because an engineer must be able to reach it
- next to an outside wall is handy for the cable entry
The grid operator has its own requirements for the meter location, including the height and the distance to the facade. You receive those requirements with the application.
What it costs
Two invoices: the grid operator's for moving the connection, and mine for the consumer unit and the cabling. The first cannot be influenced and comes directly to you.
This is often the moment to renew the unit at the same time, because everything is being disconnected anyway. What that involves is explained in consumer unit replacement.
The alternative
Sometimes it is not necessary. If the meter stays and only the consumer unit moves a few metres, no application is needed and it is a one-day job. That saves weeks of waiting and an invoice from the grid operator. Whether that is possible, I can see on site.
From my own work
During a renovation in Sittard the meter cupboard was right in the middle of the new kitchen. The consumer unit was moved to the utility room and all circuits were extended there while the walls were open. When the grid operator moved the meter weeks later, it was just a matter of connecting up. The other way round, the customer would have been without a kitchen for a week.
When to call an electrician
- The meter cupboard is in the way of a renovation
- You want the cupboard moved to the garage or utility room
- An extension is coming that changes where the connection will be
Call before the application goes off to the grid operator; the order determines how much disruption you have. Request a quote.
Frequently asked questions
Can I move my meter cupboard myself?
The consumer unit is your property, but the connection point with the meter belongs to the grid operator and is sealed. Only the grid operator may move that part.
How long will I be without power?
If the new unit has been prepared in advance, usually only a few hours on the day the grid operator comes.
Can the consumer unit move separately from the meter?
Often yes, over a few metres. Then no application is needed and it is a one-day job.
Further reading
What does an electrician cost in 2026? Hourly rate and call-out charge explained
Hourly rate, call-out charge, material margin and VAT, without beating about the bush. Including what I charge myself and why a fixed call-out charge is fairer.
Electrics in the bathroom: what is allowed where
The bathroom is divided into zones. For each zone the standard sets what may be installed and how well it must be protected.
Electrics in a new kitchen: which circuits and where
A modern kitchen easily has four to six circuits. Induction almost always needs its own power circuit.
Questions and comments
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