Electrical safety

Electricity is a major cause of accidental fires in UK homes, sparking more than 20,000 of them each year. Nine out of ten electrical fires are caused by electrical products.

That’s why it’s so important to look after the electrical equipment in your home; just because something works doesn't mean it's safe.

You should check electrical fittings and equipment regularly to make sure they're in good condition, but please don't try to do your own electrical repairs.

Reporting a fault

Please do report any electrical problems with us as soon as they occur so we can arrange for a qualified electrician to come to your home.

If you’re a home owner, please let us know before any electrical work is carried out in your home. We’ll need confirmation that the work has been done by an UKAS Accredited Certification Body registered electrician and that the correct certification is provided. You can search for registered electricians in your local area, and find safety advice, on the NICEIC website.

How we keep you electrically safe

We carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years to our tenanted properties or whenever there is a change of occupancy, including voids and mutual exchanges.

The EICR involves inspecting and testing the fixed electrical wiring and accessories (including consumer unit and sockets) within the property to determine if they need repairing or upgrading (in line with current Institution of Engineering and Technology wiring regulations).

How you can stay electrically safe

Make sure your plugs, cables and sockets are in good working order. Don’t overload sockets with too many appliances – if you need an adaptor, use a good quality multi-socket extension lead. Also, look out for the following:

Plugs

  • Plugs should fit tightly into sockets.
  • Their casing should be free from cracks.
  • Watch out for burn marks or signs of overheating.
  • The cable should be firmly secured in the plug.
  • None of the pins should be bent.
  • The cardboard label on the bottom of the plug should be removed.
  • Plugs shouldn't rattle.

Leads

  • Leads should be free from cuts, fraying and damage.
  • Don't use two- or three-way multiway adaptors.
  • If you're using an extension lead, make sure it's fully uncoiled.

Sockets

  • Sockets should be free from cracks or other damage.
  • Check them for burn marks and signs of overheating.
  • Make sure they're properly secured to the wall.
  • Make sure the switch works properly.

You can also visit Electrical Safety First for more help and advice including a free smartphone app that allows you to do a quick visual check to ensure your home is electrically safe.