How have wiring colours changed in the UK since 2006? The neutral black has been replaced by blue. The live red is now brown. The earth remains green and yellow.
Old UK wire colours – before 2007
Neutral – black
Live – red
Earth – Green and yellow
New wiring colours – since 2006
Neutral – blue
Live – brown
Earth – Green and yellow
My wiring is pre 2006 wiring – should it be replaced?
It is a common misconception that if a house has old wiring, then the house needs a complete rewire. Sometimes this may not be the case old wiring may be perfectly serviceable, even if it uses the pre-2006 colour system. A qualified electrician will be able to determine if your home’s wiring is safe and in good working order.