Warning signs
Signs of a dangerous electrical fault
Electrical faults usually give some warning before they become dangerous. Knowing what to watch, listen and smell for means you can act while it's still just a warning sign.
Smell
A burning, hot-plastic or "fishy" smell from a socket, switch, or the consumer unit is one of the clearest warning signs there is. It usually means insulation or plastic is overheating. Don't wait to see if it gets worse — switch off at the affected circuit or the main switch if it's safe to do so, and treat it as urgent.
Sound
A steady buzz or crackle from a socket, switch or the consumer unit — as opposed to the occasional harmless click of a switch settling — usually means a loose connection arcing under load. It's a fire risk that tends to get worse, not better, over time.
Heat and sight
A socket or switch faceplate that's warm or hot to the touch, discoloured, or has visible scorch marks has already experienced enough heat to be a concern even if nothing's happened yet. Sparks or visible arcing when plugging in — beyond the tiny, brief spark that's sometimes normal — is not something to wait on.
What to do
Any of the above, on their own, is worth an emergency call-out. If you also see fire or smoke, or anyone's been shocked or injured, that's a 999 call first — see the full breakdown of when to call 999 instead of booking directly.
Still not sure, or it’s happening right now?
In immediate danger, call 999 first. Otherwise, get matched with an electrician now →