Owner Self-Purchase Items

Switches & Face Plates Guide

(Switches / Face Plates / Multi-Gang Plates / Brand Series Matching)

Owners may choose to self-purchase switches and face plates. This guide clarifies responsibility boundaries and avoids delays due to short/mismatched items.

 

1) Supply & Scope Clarification (By Design Supply vs Owner Supply)

Option A — Supplied by By Design (Recommended for smoothest coordination)\

Where included/quoted, By Design can supply standard switches/ face plates.
When supplied by us, we will typically handle the full flow for you, including :

  • selection guidance to match the electrical point requirements
  • quantity planning based on the renovation scope
  • coordination of delivery timing
  • installation, basic testing, and rectification during our works
  • support for exchanges/warranty coordination with the supplier (where applicable, subject to supplier terms)
Option B — Owner Self-Purchase

If the owner prefers to self-purchase, that’s absolutely fine — simply note that:

  • owner is responsible for correct selection, compatibility, and completeness (including any required frames/modules/adaptors)
  • By Design will install based on what is provided and what is compatible with site conditions

Example (why compatibility matters):
If the owner purchases a different plate size/series that does not match the existing box/module requirements, installation may need additional adjustments or rescheduling. Any additional work outside the original scope may be chargeable.

2) Counting & Purchase Advice (Scope Boundary)

Because existing electrical points may vary slightly on-site, the final switch/face plate quantities and configurations are best confirmed using a site-based count (or the supplier’s counting service).

Recommended approach:
Owner may bring the floor plan + electrical plan (and, where possible, a quick photo of each existing switch point on site) to the supplier and request them to:

  • advise the estimated quantities required
  • confirm the gang configuration (1-gang / 2-gang / 3-gang, etc.) and series/finish matching
  • confirm any required accessories (frames, modules, adaptors, back boxes where applicable)

Note: If you’d like By Design to provide a detailed counting/verification service, this can be arranged as an add-on (subject to site access and scope).

3) Compatibility Notes (Common Issues)

Owner must confirm:

  • same brand and same series across all plates (matching colour and finish)
  • correct gang configuration (1-gang/2-gang/3-gang etc.)
  • correct module type (1-way/2-way/intermediate, fan regulator, dimmer, etc.)
  • compatibility with any smart modules (if applicable)

Note: Colour/finish can vary by batch or series even within the same brand.

Example: “Same brand” but different series → whites look different, edges sit differently, or frames don’t match.

4) Smart Switches / Smart Modules (Must Declare Early)

If you plan to use smart switches or smart modules, please inform us early, including:

  • brand/system (e.g., Zigbee, Wi-Fi, proprietary hub)
  • whether neutral wire is required at switch points
  • whether a hub/gateway is needed
  • dimming type requirements (if using smart dimmers)

Why this matters: Some smart switches require neutral wiring or extra space, which must be planned before electrical works are finalised.

Example: Owner buys smart switches later and discovers neutral wire is required → additional rewiring may be needed (chargeable).

5) Box Depth & Fitment (Smart Modules Often Need More Space)

Some smart modules require:

  • deeper back boxes
  • more internal space for wiring
  • specific mounting frames/adaptors

If the module cannot fit due to box depth/space limitations, rectification may require additional works and costs.

6) Short / Wrong / Missing Items: Re-Trip Charges Apply

If items are short/wrong/missing and we need additional visits to complete installation, re-trip charges apply.

Examples

  • Missing 3-gang plates for bedrooms → cannot complete → return trip required
  • Wrong series delivered → replacement needed → return trip required

7) Warranty & Troubleshooting Boundary

  • Product warranty: between owner and supplier/manufacturer
  • Installation workmanship warranty: By Design covers installation-related issues only (e.g., correct mounting and wiring termination)
  • Smart app setup, pairing, automation rules, hub connectivity, and device firmware issues are typically handled by the owner / smart vendor.

 

 

@bydesignworks