Frequently Asked Questions
Based in Bury St Edmunds we cover a 25-mile radius across Suffolk & Cambridgeshire
Answers to the questions we hear most often from homeowners, landlords and businesses across Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire.
A protective device can trip because of a faulty appliance, damaged wiring or another problem with a circuit. The cause is not always obvious. If it happens repeatedly, leave the affected circuit off and arrange fault finding rather than continually resetting it. Do not remove covers or attempt wiring repairs yourself.
Buzzing or crackling can indicate a loose connection or electrical arcing and should be checked promptly. Stop using the affected fitting. If there is heat, scorching or a burning smell, seek urgent assistance and isolate the supply only if you can do so safely.
Stop using the affected equipment and switch off the electricity only if it is safe to reach the main switch. Do not touch hot or damaged fittings or remove any covers. Arrange urgent help from an electrician. If there is smoke, fire or you suspect a fire, leave the property and call 999. Do not use water on an electrical fire.
Check whether neighbours or nearby properties have also lost power. You can contact the electricity network operator on 105 to report or check a power cut. If only your property is affected, a fault in your installation or an appliance may be responsible. Do not attempt repairs, and seek urgent help if there is damage, heat or a burning smell.
No. The age of the fuse box alone does not tell us whether the wiring needs replacing. An inspection can assess the circuits, earthing and protection. Depending on the findings, the right approach may be a consumer unit upgrade, repairs, a partial rewire or a full rewire.
The age of the installation, damaged accessories, repeated faults and evidence of old wiring can all be reasons to arrange an inspection. These signs do not prove that a full rewire is needed. Testing helps establish the condition of the installation and which parts need attention.
In many homes, additional sockets can be installed without rewiring the whole property. We need to check that the existing circuit is suitable and can support the change. New circuits may be needed for some appliances or where the current installation cannot safely accommodate extra outlets.
Sometimes, but a full rewire can involve lifting floorboards, opening walls and interrupting power to several rooms. Whether staying is practical depends on the property and the work involved. We will discuss access, power interruptions and the likely disruption before work starts so you can plan accommodation if needed.
For an owner-occupied home, an inspection at least every ten years is generally recommended, or sooner if a previous report advises it. Arrange a check earlier if you notice faults or signs of damage. Rented homes have different requirements, and the recommended next inspection date should always be followed.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report, or EICR, records the condition of an existing fixed electrical installation and identifies issues needing attention. An Electrical Installation Certificate records the design, installation and testing of new installation work, such as a rewire or consumer unit replacement. Smaller alterations may use a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate.
An EICR can help you understand the condition of the fixed wiring before committing to a purchase. A general property survey does not usually include detailed electrical testing. The report can identify work that needs budgeting for, although access limitations should be discussed before the inspection.
For planned work, we may need to see the property to assess access, cable routes and the existing installation. Photos and a clear description can help with the initial discussion. Fault finding is different because the cause may need investigating before the repair can be priced. Ask us to explain the proposed scope and charges before proceeding.
Usually, the circuit being worked on needs to be isolated. Some work also requires the main supply to be switched off. Tell us beforehand if you rely on powered medical equipment, work from home or have other essential equipment, so we can discuss the interruptions and any arrangements you need to make.
Before building work starts is best. This gives time to check the existing supply and plan sockets, lighting, heating and any dedicated circuits. First fix wiring normally takes place before plastering; switches, sockets and light fittings are fitted during second fix. Early planning helps avoid changes after the room has been finished.
Cable routes and fittings can be planned around exposed timber, stonework and other original features. The options depend on the building and where power is needed, so some visible wiring or alterations may still be necessary. Discuss the routes before work starts. For a listed building, check any consent requirements before alterations are made.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact LG Electrical Services today. Call the team to arrange a free home visit, or send an email to have someone call you back.
