Short answer: an electrical inspection is a thorough check of your fuse board and wiring, with tests on every circuit, so you know what's safe, what's worn and what needs attention. You get the findings explained in plain English, and a written quote for anything that needs fixing.
When it's worth having one
- You've bought an older home and don't know the history of the wiring
- It's been many years since anyone looked at it
- You're planning an extension, a new kitchen or adding big loads like a hot tub or garden room
- After a flood, a leak, or damage near cables
- Something feels off: trips, flickering, warm sockets or a burning smell (switch off and call first)
What gets checked
- The fuse board: its age, condition and the protection it gives each circuit, including RCDs
- Earthing and bonding: the connections that make a fault safe rather than dangerous
- Cables and accessories: the visible condition of wiring, sockets, switches and fittings, looking for damage, heat or wear
- Tests on each circuit: measurements that show the wiring is sound and the protective devices work as they should
Will the power be off?
For parts of it, yes. Circuits are switched off one at a time while they're tested, so it's rarely off everywhere for long. We'll tell you how it will run before we start, so you can plan around the fridge, the freezer and anyone working from home.
How long does it take?
It depends on the size of the property and the number of circuits. A typical house is a few hours. Larger homes or business premises take longer. You'll know before we arrive.
What you get afterwards
A clear explanation of what we found, sorted into what's urgent, what should be done soon and what's fine. If anything is dangerous, we tell you straight away and make it safe. For anything else, you get a written quote, with no pressure to go ahead.
Tell us roughly how old the property is and how many bedrooms, and John can tell you what's involved.