How often should I have my property’s electrical wiring inspected?
For commercial and retail properties, an EICR is required every 5 years. Domestic properties should be inspected every 10 years. For industrial facilities, an EICR should be completed every 3 years. For landlords and rental properties in the private and social housing sector, EICR’s are legally required every 5 years or change of tenant/ owner.
Can I carry out electrical work myself?
It is always best to seek professional help and advice when undergoing electrical works. A qualified and competent company, like ourselves, will offer the best advice and knowledge of the works required.
How often should a Fire Alarm System be tested?
According to BS5839-1, it is required that a fire alarm system is serviced every 6 months with the full system being serviced and inspected annually.
What is PAT testing, and when do I need it?
PAT, also known as portable appliance testing, is an inspection of each individual appliance. For example, microwaves and kettles. This should be carried out on a risk assessment basis; however this is generally undertaken annually.
Can I add sockets or lighting circuits myself?
This largely depends on competency. However, to ensure the works are carried out safely and in accordance with current wiring regulations, it is advised to employ approved and qualified electricians to carry out any works.
What should I do if a fuse keeps tripping or a breaker keeps popping?
Stop using the affected circuit and call a qualified electrician immediately. Frequent trips indicate a fault or overload.
How can I safely use outdoor electrical equipment?
Use RCD-protected sockets, check for wear and tear of flexes or water ingress into appliances. Unplug devices when not in use.
How can I reduce the risk of electrical fires?
If you are concerned about the safety and condition of your electrics, do not hesitate to contact us for an EICR. This is a full safety inspection of your property that will indicate any faults or works required that are needed to bring your property up to regulation. Unplug appliances that are not in use. DO NOT leave batteries charging whilst unattended.
Do I need an electrical inspection before selling my home?
Not legally required for standard sales, but a current EICR reassures buyers. For rental properties, inspections are mandatory.
How can I tell if my wiring is unsafe or outdated?
Flickering lights, frequent trips, warm sockets, discoloured outlets, or very old wiring (20–30+ years) are red flags. In this case, it is always best to seek professional advice on what the next steps are to ensuring your electrics are safe for continued use.
How do I safely install an EV charger at?
EV chargers must be installed by a qualified electrician and connected to a dedicated circuit with adequate RCD protection. Never attempt DIY installation. The installer will then complete the necessary application form through the Energy Networks Association (ENA) Connect Direct platform to ensure the DNO is aware of the new equipment and its potential load on the grid.
Are smart home devices safe for my electrical system?
Yes, if installed correctly. Avoid overloading sockets, use certified devices, and follow manufacturer instructions. Faulty or cheap devices can cause overheating.
Can I charge multiple devices from one socket?
Overloading sockets is potentially dangerous. The presence of multiple adaptors may indicate you do not have sufficient actual socket outlets. Consider having additional sockets professionally installed. Avoid daisy-chaining multiple adapters. Use surge-protected extension leads and avoid overloading sockets.
What’s the difference between RCDs, MCBs, and fuses?
• RCD: Detects current leakage to earth, shuts off to prevent electric shocks.
• MCB: Circuit breaker for overloads/short circuits.
• Fuse: Older protection device, melts when overloaded.
How often should I replace my domestic smoke alarms and heat detectors?
Most modern smoke alarms and heat detectors — especially sealed, tamper-proof units — have a 10-year lifespan. After this, the sensors degrade and the alarm becomes unreliable.
If yours are mains-powered (230V) with replaceable batteries, the detector head itself still typically needs replacing every 10 years.
Can outdoor lights or garden electrics be left on all night?
Yes, if properly installed and RCD-protected, but avoid cheap or DIY setups. External fittings should have the relevant ingress of water protection.
How do I safely add a home office or workshop circuit?
Additional circuits in any circumstance should be designed and installed by a competent electrician to ensure the installation can cope with the additional load. It is also important to check that the installation has the necessary earth bonding in place before carrying out any additional works. It is also a requirement for the electrician to notify building control via a body such as NAPIT to comply with part P of the building regulations.
Can I install battery backup systems for domestic smoke alarms?
There a various grades of domestic smoke alarms which provide various levels of protection.
• Grade A: A high-level system with separate detectors, sounders, and a central control panel, usually found in high-risk commercial or communal areas.
• Grade C: Mains-powered detectors and sounders connected to a central control system, with a backup power supply.
• Grade D: Mains-powered detectors with a standby battery supply.
o D1: The battery is tamper-proof and not user-replaceable.
o D2: The battery is user-replaceable.
• Grade F: Battery-powered detectors only, with no mains power.
o F1: Uses a tamper-proof, long-life battery.
o F2: Uses a user-replaceable battery.
How can I check if my property is ready for future electrical upgrades?
An EICR will give a ‘snap shot’ of an installations current condition. This is the best way to assess whether the installation is safe and suitable for continued use.