Electricity is something we rely on every day, yet many homeowners overlook the importance of regular electrical safety checks. Faulty wiring, outdated systems, and overloaded circuits can pose serious risks, including electric shocks, fires, and power failures.

If your home hasn’t had an electrical inspection in a while, it’s worth asking: Is your home up to standard? In this guide, we’ll explain why electrical safety checks are essential, what’s involved, and how to tell if your home needs one.

1. Why Are Electrical Safety Checks Important?

Over time, electrical systems wear out, become outdated, or get overloaded as we add more appliances and devices to our homes. Regular safety checks help to:

✔ Prevent Electrical Fires – Faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of house fires in the UK.
✔ Avoid Electric Shocks – Damaged sockets, frayed cables, or unprotected wiring can be dangerous.
✔ Ensure Compliance with Regulations – Homes must meet current BS 7671 wiring regulations.
✔ Identify Potential Issues Early – Fixing minor faults now can prevent costly repairs later.

Even if your lights and appliances seem to be working fine, hidden electrical faults can develop over time—making regular inspections crucial for safety and peace of mind.

2. What Happens During an Electrical Safety Check?

A qualified electrician will carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), which includes:

🔍 Visual Inspection – Checking sockets, switches, fuse boards, and visible wiring for wear and damage.
⚡ Testing Circuits – Ensuring wiring is safe and checking for potential overloads.
🛠 Identifying Faults – Finding loose connections, outdated components, or overheating issues.
📋 Providing a Report – Highlighting any problems and recommending necessary repairs or upgrades.

If your home passes the inspection, you’ll receive an EICR certificate, confirming that your electrical system meets current UK safety standards.

3. How Often Should You Have an Electrical Safety Check?

The recommended frequency for an EICR inspection depends on your property type:

🏡 Private Homes – Every 10 years or when buying/selling a property.
🏠 Rented Properties – Every 5 years (a legal requirement for landlords).
🔧 After Major Renovations – If you’ve had an extension or major electrical work, a new safety check is advised.

However, if you notice any signs of electrical issues, it’s best to schedule a check immediately.

4. Signs Your Home May Need an Electrical Check Sooner

If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, don’t wait for your next scheduled inspection—call a qualified electrician as soon as possible:

🚨 Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breakers – Could indicate overloaded circuits or faulty wiring.
🔥 Burning Smells from Sockets or Fuse Board – A sign of overheating wires, which can lead to fires.
💡 Flickering or Dimming Lights – Could mean loose connections or power fluctuations.
⚡ Buzzing or Crackling Sounds – Often a warning of dangerous electrical faults.
🔌 Sparks When Plugging in Appliances – Could indicate worn-out sockets or unsafe wiring.
📅 Your Home is Over 30 Years Old with No Recent Inspection – Older wiring may no longer meet modern safety standards.

Ignoring these warning signs puts your home at risk, so it’s always best to act quickly.

5. What Happens if Your Home Fails an Electrical Safety Check?

If your home doesn’t meet safety standards, your electrician will provide a detailed report explaining:

❌ What the issues are
⚠️ Why they are a safety risk
🔧 What work is required to bring your system up to standard

In some cases, minor repairs (such as replacing a faulty socket) can be done immediately. However, if more extensive work is needed—like rewiring old circuits or upgrading the fuse board—your electrician will guide you through the next steps.

6. How to Book an Electrical Safety Check

For your peace of mind, always hire a qualified and registered electrician. Look for:

✔ NICEIC or NAPIT accreditation – This ensures they meet UK safety and compliance standards.
✔ Experience with EICR inspections – A professional who regularly carries out home safety checks.
✔ Transparent pricing and advice – A reputable electrician will provide clear explanations and fair pricing.

At JCE Contracting Ltd, we specialise in EICR inspections and electrical safety checks for homes across Somerset & Wiltshire. Our team of expert electricians will ensure your home meets all current regulations, giving you confidence in your electrical system.

📞 Need to book an electrical safety check? Contact us today for a free consultation!

Final Thoughts

An electrical safety check isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your home, your family, and your property from potential hazards. Whether you’re moving into a new house, renting out a property, or simply haven’t had a check-up in years, ensuring your electrical system is safe and up to standard is one of the most important things you can do.

✅ Have peace of mind—get your home’s electrics checked today!