This checklist covers the most important electrical safety points for UK homeowners. Work through each item and note any that need attention. If you are unsure about any item, contact a qualified electrician rather than making assumptions.
Consumer unit check: Is the consumer unit a modern metal-clad unit with MCBs and RCDs? Is it labelled so you know which MCB controls which circuit? Are all MCBs in the on position? Is there any sign of heat damage, burning smell, or scorch marks? If you answered no to the first two or yes to the last two, book an inspection.
Sockets and switches: Are there any sockets or switches that are warm to the touch, discoloured, cracked, or loose? Do any sockets spark when you plug in an appliance? Are overloaded extension leads in use anywhere? Do you have enough sockets for your needs without daisy-chaining? Are outdoor sockets weatherproof and protected by an RCD?
Alarms and general safety: Is there a working smoke alarm on every floor and in every main room? Is there a working carbon monoxide alarm in every room with a gas or solid fuel appliance? When was the last EICR carried out? (Recommended every 10 years for owner-occupiers, every 5 years for rented properties.) Is the wiring in the property less than 30 years old, or has it been tested since? DP Power Solutions offers free quotations for any work identified through this checklist.
About DP Power Solutions: We are qualified domestic electricians based in Staffordshire, providing EICRs, consumer unit upgrades, rewires, EV charger installation, and more across Cannock, Rugeley, Lichfield, Stafford, and the surrounding area.