Outdoor Socket and Power Installation UK¶

Guide to installing outdoor power sockets and weatherproof electrical connections for UK garden security lighting, cameras, and alarms.

Outdoor Socket Types and IP Ratings¶

Outdoor power sockets require a minimum IP66 rating for UK weather conditions. Screwfix and B&Q sell MK Masterseal and LAP outdoor sockets from £12 - £40. A single outdoor socket installation by a registered electrician costs £150 - £250 including Part P certification. Power requirements: PIR floodlights 10 - 50W, CCTV cameras 5 - 15W, alarm panels 3 - 10W. Run 2.5mm SWA cable from a 30mA RCD-protected indoor spur in 20mm conduit.

Positioning and Safety Best Practices¶

Position outdoor sockets 1 - 1.5 metres above ground to reduce flood risk. Use a weatherproof lid that can operate with a plug inserted - known as 'in-use' covers. Never use indoor extension leads outside. Install multiple sockets around the garden perimeter to avoid long cable runs across pathways. For garden office power, use 10mm SWA cable buried 600mm deep with a 16A or 32A RCBO at the consumer unit. Test RCD trip time annually - maximum 40ms at 150mA.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Socket Type	IP Rating	Price	Cable Required	Best Use
Single Outdoor	IP66	£12 - £20	2.5mm SWA	General garden
Twin Outdoor	IP66	£20 - £35	2.5mm SWA	Multi-device
RCD Outdoor	IP66	£25 - £40	2.5mm SWA	Wet areas
Commiand Socket	IP66	£30 - £50	2.5mm SWA	Smart garden

FAQ¶

Can I install an outdoor socket myself?: In the UK, Part P of Building Regulations requires a registered electrician for new outdoor socket circuits. Replacement like-for-like is DIY.
Do outdoor sockets need RCD protection?: Yes - all outdoor circuits must be protected by a 30mA RCD. Use an RCBO consumer unit for the garden supply.
What cable do I use for underground garden power?: Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable buried at least 600mm deep with marker tape. Minimum 2.5mm for lighting, 10mm for sheds. For more information see our PIR Security Light Installation Guide UK.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the Electrical Safety First.