Move an intercom handset

Move an intercom handset in Edinburgh

County: East Scotland

Moving an intercom handset is a straightforward electrical job that involves relocating your door entry system’s listening and speaking unit to a different room or position within your home. Homeowners often want to do this when refurbishing a room, improving convenience, or better integrating the handset into their daily routines. Whether you’ve recently extended your house, changed the room layout, or simply want the handset closer to your main living or entrance space, moving it can improve functionality. Because intercom systems connect to your home’s electricity supply and sometimes to door-release mechanisms, the work should be done safely and compliant with electrical regulations.

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⭐ Introduction

Whether you’ve recently extended your house, changed the room layout, or simply want the handset closer to your main living or entrance space, moving it can improve functionality. Because intercom systems connect to your home’s electricity supply and sometimes to door-release mechanisms, the work should be done safely and compliant with electrical regulations.

🔧 What the job involves

Moving an intercom handset means disconnecting the existing handset from its current location and reinstalling it elsewhere. This typically includes:

Safely isolating the power supply to the intercom.
Removing the handset and any wiring carefully.
Extending or rerouting cables from the base unit or door panel to the new location.
Installing mounting brackets or back boxes if needed.
Reconnecting the handset in the new position, ensuring all connections are secure.
Testing the system to confirm it works correctly, including audio clarity and door-release functions if present.

Depending on your system, this might also mean moving additional components such as the chime box or control panel. Some modern intercoms use wireless technology which can simplify the move, though many UK homes still have hardwired systems.

Only a qualified electrician should carry out the work to ensure safety and compliance with Part P of the Building Regulations, which governs electrical installations in domestic properties.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

Make an enquiry
Contact a registered electrician and provide details about your current intercom system, what you wish to achieve, and the new handset location.
Arrange a site survey
The electrician visits your home to inspect the current setup, check cable routes, and confirm the feasibility of relocating the handset.
Receive a quote
After the survey, the electrician supplies a written estimate covering labour, materials, and any additional costs.
Schedule the work
Agree on a convenient date and time for the relocation.
Preparation
On the day, ensure easy access to the rooms involved and clear any furniture around the work area.
Electrical work and installation
The electrician isolates power, disconnects the handset, moves wiring as needed, mounts the handset in the new location, reconnects, and tests everything.
Completion and checks
After testing the system, the electrician tidies up, discusses operation if necessary, and provides any certification required.
Keep paperwork
Retain all certificates and warranties for future reference or if you sell your home.

💷 Main costs to expect

Labour: Electricians typically charge £40–£70 per hour, depending on region and experience.
Materials/parts: Replacement cable (if existing wiring needs extension or upgrade), wall fixings, junction boxes — usually £10–£40.
Extras: Additional wiring length, removal of old fixtures, or rewiring other intercom components may add cost.
Disposal: Small charge if electrician removes old parts or packaging, commonly £5–£15.
Certification: If rewiring involves mains changes, a Part P electrical safety certificate may cost £50–£100.

Example cost breakdown

Labour (2 hours): £100
Materials (cables, fixings): £25
Certificate (Part P): £75
Total: Approx. £200

📊 What affects the price

Access to cables and existing wiring condition
Distance between old and new handset locations
Complexity of extending or rerouting cables inside walls or under floors
Requirement for new wall boxes or surface trunking
Compliance with Part P and whether certification is needed
Additional door-release mechanism adjustments
Urgency or quick turnaround requests
Property type and age (may require more careful work in older buildings)

⏱ How long does it take?

Simple move within the same room or adjacent wall: 1–2 hours
Relocation requiring cable extension through walls or ceilings: 2–4 hours
Complex installations involving multiple components or rewiring: 4+ hours (may need multiple visits)

🏠 Can you DIY it?

If you have good electrical skills, understand wiring, and the intercom is a straightforward extension, you might consider DIY. However, several important points to consider:

UK regulations (Part P) require certified installers for electrical work involving new or altered fixed wiring.
Incorrect wiring risks electric shock, fire, or damage to the intercom and your property.
Your intercom system may be integrated with door release or alarm systems which require professional handling.
A DIY approach may invalidate manufacturer warranties or home insurance.
When in doubt, hire a qualified electrician who is comfortable working with intercom systems.

💰 Typical UK price range

You can expect the cost to move an intercom handset in the UK to typically fall between £150 and £350 plus VAT. This depends on system complexity, cable routing, and whether certification is required. Always obtain a written quote before proceeding.

✅ Handy tips before you start

Check your intercom manufacturer’s instructions for any movement or installation restrictions.
Confirm your electrician is Part P certified and experienced with intercom systems.
Clear access around the handset and cable route both at the old and new locations.
Keep a note of your existing wiring and take photos — they help with reconnection.
Ask your electrician to test the system fully after installation, including door release if fitted.
Retain all invoices, warranty documents, and certificates for future reference or property sale.
Consider if other system upgrades, such as switching to a video intercom, might be beneficial now.
If your intercom is part of a security system, inform your alarm company if needed.

Moving your intercom handset is a practical improvement that enhances your home’s convenience and safety. With the right planning and professional help, it can be completed swiftly and safely.

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