How many sockets do I need in a kitchen?

A kitchen typically needs a minimum of 8 socket outlets, with more for larger kitchens. Plan sockets above the worktop (150mm above surface height) for small appliances like kettles, toasters, and food processors. You also need dedicated circuits for the oven, hob, fridge-freezer, and dishwasher. Keep sockets at least 300mm from the sink.

What height should sockets be installed at?

Standard UK socket height is 300mm from the finished floor level to the bottom of the socket. Kitchen worktop sockets should be 150mm above the worktop surface (typically 1050mm from floor). Garage and workshop sockets are often at 1100mm for easier access. Accessible installations should be between 450mm and 1200mm per Part M.

Can I have sockets in a bathroom?

Standard 13A socket outlets are NOT permitted inside bathrooms. The only socket allowed is a BS EN 61558 shaver socket (with isolating transformer), and this must be located in Zone 3 — at least 0.6m from the boundary of Zone 2. All bathroom circuits must have 30mA RCD protection. Standard sockets can be installed just outside the bathroom door.

What are bathroom zones in the UK wiring regulations?

Zone 0 is inside the bath or shower tray. Zone 1 is directly above Zone 0 to a height of 2.25m from floor level. Zone 2 extends 0.6m horizontally from Zone 1. Zone 3 (outside Zone 2) allows some equipment. Each zone has strict rules about what electrical equipment can be installed and its IP rating. These are defined in BS 7671 Section 701.

Is there a legal minimum number of sockets per room?

There is no legal minimum in UK Building Regulations Part P. However, the IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology) and NHBC (National House-Building Council) guidelines recommend minimum numbers. Inadequate sockets lead to extension lead use, which is a fire risk. Our calculator follows best practice recommendations for modern living. Once you know how many sockets you need, use our Circuit Breaker Calculator to determine the correct MCB rating for the circuit.

Socket Spacing Calculator — How Many Sockets Per Room UK?

How We Calculate This

This calculator uses room type and dimensions to recommend socket outlet quantities and positioning based on UK Part P Building Regulations guidance, IET best practice, and NHBC standards for new-build homes.

How we calculate

Recommended sockets = Room area × sockets-per-m² factor

The result is compared against the minimum for that room type and the higher value is used. Spacing is calculated by dividing the room perimeter by the number of socket positions (assuming double sockets).

Room-type recommendations

Kitchen: ~1 socket per m², minimum 8. Height: 150mm above worktop.
Living room: ~0.5 per m², minimum 8. Standard 300mm height.
Bedroom: ~0.4 per m², minimum 6. Standard 300mm height.
Bathroom: Shaver socket only. No standard sockets inside bathroom.
Garage: ~0.4 per m², minimum 4. Workshop height 1100mm.
Home office: ~0.8 per m², minimum 6. Standard or desk height.

These recommendations follow IET guidance and NHBC minimum standards. Modern homes with increased device usage may benefit from additional sockets. It is always better to install more sockets during construction than to add them later.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.

Socket Spacing Calculator — UK Part P Guidance