HandyMangum, Residential & Commercial Services

Home accessibility · Reach

Reachable outlets and light switches

Quick answer

Outlets set near the floor and switches set high can be hard to reach from a wheelchair or for anyone who cannot bend. HandyMangum plans and coordinates moving outlets and switches into easy reach, between about 15 and 48 inches off the floor following ADA guidelines, and swaps in rocker switches and USB outlets. Wiring changes are done by properly licensed electricians, and we handle the patching and painting.

What this involves

Plugging in a lamp or a phone charger at floor level is a daily strain for people with back or hip problems, and impossible for some wheelchair users. Moving outlets up and switches down puts them in an easy reach range.

This is electrical work, so the wiring is done by properly licensed professionals. We plan the locations with you, coordinate the work, and finish the walls so you cannot tell anything moved.

Who it helps

  • Wheelchair users
  • Anyone who cannot bend or kneel easily
  • People with back, knee or hip problems
  • Bedrooms and kitchens used every day
  • Homes being remodeled for accessibility
  • Anyone who wants a charger by the bed at mattress height

What the job involves

  1. Plan the spots

    We mark where outlets and switches should be for how the room is used.

  2. Licensed wiring

    A licensed electrician moves or adds the boxes and wiring.

  3. Patch and paint

    We patch, texture and paint the old and new openings.

Options

Raise outlets

Moving bedside, desk and kitchen outlets up to about 18 to 24 inches or counter height.

Lower switches

Bringing switches down to about 42 to 44 inches for a seated reach.

Rocker switches

Large flat switches that press with a hand or elbow.

Lighting

USB outlets

Charge phones and hearing-aid cases without an adapter.

Smart plugs and switches

Turn lights on by voice or phone, no wiring change needed.

Outlet for a bidet seat

A grounded outlet within reach of the toilet.

Bidet seats

Good to know

  • ADA guidelines put controls and outlets within a reach range of about 15 to 48 inches above the floor.
  • Bathroom and kitchen outlets must be GFCI-protected.
  • If any part of the job needs a permit or a state-licensed trade, such as new plumbing lines or new wiring, we tell you during the quote and that part is handled by properly licensed professionals.

Reachable Outlets & Switches FAQs

What height should outlets be for a wheelchair user?

Following ADA guidelines, at least 15 inches above the floor; many people find 18 to 24 inches easier. Switches are best no higher than 48 inches.

Can you move an outlet higher on the wall?

Yes. The wiring is done by a licensed electrician, and we patch and paint the wall afterwards.

Is there a way to do this without rewiring?

Sometimes. Smart plugs, remote switches and voice control can make a low outlet or high switch easier to use without moving it.

Do you do this as part of a bigger job?

Often. It fits well with door widening, a bathroom conversion or a bedroom set up for someone coming home from the hospital.

How do I book?

Estimates are free. Call or text (407) 699-1123, or send the online request with a few photos. We send a written quote before any work starts.

Bring things into reach

Call or text (407) 699-1123, or send the online request with a few photos. Estimates are free on every job.