Think Your House or Flat’s Wiring Is Fine? Take a Closer Look.
Your House or Flat might feel modern on the surface.
But what’s happening behind your sockets and switches could tell a different story.
Old or faulty wiring doesn’t always show itself, until there’s a blown fuse, a burning smell, or worse.
If you’re unsure whether your House or Flat needs rewiring, start with this checklist.
These are the most common signs we find when inspecting houses or Flats across the UK.
1. You Still Have an Old Fuse Box
Outdated fuse boards are easy to spot. They usually have old-style fuses, no RCD switches, and sometimes visible burn marks.
Modern consumer units come with RCDs, these cut the power instantly during a fault and are now standard for safety.
Look for:
- No RCD switches on your fuse board
- Fuse wires instead of breakers
- Overheating or burn marks
- No recent electrical certificates
If this sounds familiar, it’s time to get your system checked.
2. Your Lights Flicker or Fuses Keep Tripping
Appliances shouldn’t cause lights to dim.
Fuses shouldn’t blow every few days.
If that’s happening in your House or Flat, it’s likely your wiring is overloaded, especially if it’s decades old.
Common signs:
- Lights dim when using the kettle or microwave
- Breakers trip frequently
- Buzzing from switches or sockets
- Switches that feel loose or warm
This isn’t just annoying, it’s a warning.
3. Your Sockets Are Hot or Smell Burnt
This is serious.
If a socket feels hot or smells like burning plastic, turn the power off and stop using it immediately.
These are signs of faulty wiring and a possible fire risk.
Watch for:
- Brown scorch marks around the socket
- Cracked or melted faceplates
- Sparking when plugging in a device
Don’t ignore this. It needs attention right away.
4. Your House or Flat Is 30+ Years Old And Never Been Rewired
Just because everything “still works” doesn’t mean it’s safe.
If your wiring hasn’t been touched in decades, it’s likely out of date and no longer meets safety standards.
Even if you don’t notice obvious issues, the insulation around old wires can degrade with time, becoming brittle and dangerous without warning.
If your House or Flat is 30+ years old and you’ve never had a rewire, now is the time to get it checked.
5. You’re Planning a Renovation or Extension
Doing work on your kitchen, loft, or adding an extension?
That’s the best time to rewire.
It’s cost-effective, cleaner, and avoids having to open things up again later.
Plus, all new electrical work must meet current building regulations.
If your existing wiring doesn’t, you may be required to update it anyway.
Bonus: Check Your Wiring Type
If you can see any of the following, your wiring is outdated and should be replaced:
- Black rubber-insulated wires
- Fabric-covered cabling
- Lead-sheathed cables
- No earth wire (only 2-core)
- Sockets installed on skirting boards
These types were phased out for a reason, they’re no longer considered safe.
What Should You Do If You Spot These Signs?
Book a free inspection.
You don’t need to decide everything today, that’s our job.
We’ll take a proper look, give you an honest opinion, and walk you through your options.
No pressure. No jargon. Just clarity.
