Builders
Carpenters
Electricians
Flooring Specialists
Gardeners
Handymen
Heating Engineers
Painters & Decorators
Plasterers & Renderers
Plumbers
Roofers
Tilers
myWhen Did You Last Get Your Electrics Checked?
Electrical problems are not always completely obvious at the start, and many homeowners may be unsure about when their wiring, sockets, or consumer unit were last professionally checked.
If you can’t remember the last time your electrics were inspected, there are several signs that you can look out for. Take a look at the list below for some signs that it could be time to arrange an electrical safety check:
1. You Cannot Remember the Last Inspection
You should ideally know when the electrics in your home were last inspected, particularly after moving into a new home. If you don’t have any electrical paperwork or if you can’t remember when the last checks were carried out, then it can be very beneficial to arrange an inspection, even if it is just for peace of mind.
A qualified electrician can assess the condition of the wiring, sockets, switches, and consumer unit and then advise on whether any repairs, upgrades or further investigations may be needed. This can be particularly useful in older homes or homes that have limited electrical records.
2. Your Property Has Older Wiring or Fittings
There are several things that may suggest your electrical installation is older. These can include if you have an outdated fuse box, older-style sockets, a limited number of power points, or visible ageing around switches and fittings. However, an old electrical system is not automatically unsafe, so this is worth noting.
Older installations may simply not be designed to meet the demands of a modern household. Modern homes typically rely on far more appliances and devices. A professional inspection can identify worn components, damaged wiring, or areas that may benefit from upgrading. This can be very useful in terms of functionality as well as safety.
3. You Have Noticed Electrical Warning Signs
Things like flickering lights, buzzing sockets, burning smells, warm switches, frequent tripping, and scorch marks around plugs or outlets should never be ignored. These are all signs that could indicate there is an electrical fault that requires professional attention.
Avoid attempting any DIY repairs or continuing to use an affected fitting, as this could end up being very dangerous. Where it is safe to do so, stop using the fitting and arrange for a qualified electrician to inspect the problem as soon as possible. Speed is important here as the quicker you can get it looked at, the safer it will be.
4. Your Home Relies on Extension Leads
If you are regularly relying on extension leads or multi-plug adapters, this may suggest that your home does not have enough sockets for your everyday needs. This can be quite inconvenient and may lead to cables being stretched across rooms or positioned where they could become damaged. Cables across rooms and lots of extension leads dotted about can also become tripping hazards and may look unsightly.
An electrician can check whether your existing circuits are suitable and install additional sockets in safer and more convenient locations. In many cases, you may be able to discuss these improvements during the same visit as your electrical inspection.
5. You Are Planning Improvements or Buying New Appliances
An electrical inspection can be particularly useful before large projects such as the installation of high-powered appliances, renovating a room, converting a loft, or making significant changes to your kitchen. These projects can increase the demands placed on your existing electrical system.
An electrician will be able to assess whether your current installation is suitable and advise on any additional sockets, lighting points, or circuit upgrades that may be needed. Planning this work in advance can help to ensure your electrical system is suitable for any changes you intend to make. If you are unsure about anything, consider speaking to a professional electrician who will be able to guide you on what is needed for your particular project.
Conclusion
A professional electrical inspection can help to identify potential problems before they become more serious and provide reassurance about the condition of your home’s electrical system. While you are getting your electrics checked, you can also use the visit as an opportunity to discuss things like extra sockets, lighting or other small electrical improvements.
Electrical work should always be left to the professionals, and if you are unsure about anything or worried about the electrics in your home, get in touch with a local electrician as soon as possible.
Post a job on MyJobQuote to hire a local electrician for an electrical safety check or inspection.
Last updated by MyJobQuote on 3rd August 2026.
