Faulty wiring and electrical safety
Faulty wiring is a hidden danger in many homes and a major cause of electrical fires. Older wiring, damaged sockets, or overloaded systems can all lead to serious risk. Regular checks and knowing the warning signs can help keep your home safe.
Signs of faulty or ageing wiring
Watch out for these common warning signs:
- Sparking or buzzing from plugs or sockets
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Burning smells near sockets or switches
- Scorch marks, discolouration, or heat on plugs or wall outlets
- Frequent tripping of fuses or circuit breakers
- Loose or cracked sockets and light switches
If you notice any of these, stop using the appliance or socket immediately and contact a qualified electrician.
When to get your wiring checked
- If your home is over 25 years old and hasn’t had a recent electrical inspection
- If you’ve just moved into a property
- After flood or fire damage
- If you use a lot of extension leads or multi-plug adaptors
- Before installing major appliances like electric showers or cookers
Electrical installation checks
Get a professional inspection every 10 years (or every 5 years for rented properties, as required by law).
Use a registered electrician – you can find one through:
Ask for an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report), which highlights any hazards or urgent repairs.
Plug and socket safety
- Don’t overload plug sockets – use one high-powered appliance per socket.
- Unplug devices when not in use.
- Check plugs, leads and chargers for damage – if the wire is frayed or the casing is cracked, stop using it.
- Use extension leads with surge protection, and never plug one extension into another.
- Read more hints and tips.
Stay protected
- Keep a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, and install a carbon monoxide alarm in every room with a fuel-burning appliance, such as a boiler, wood burner, or open fire.
- Test your alarms regularly.
- Have an escape plan and make sure everyone in the household knows it.
- If a fire does start, get out, stay out, and call 999.
- For more information visit Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service's safety at home section, or Fire Kills