New Home Buyer Advice

What to Look for in Electrical Systems When Buying Your New Home

Buying your first home is an exciting adventure, but it can also be overwhelming. With so much to consider, it’s easy to focus on the cosmetic features and overlook the vital systems that keep your home running smoothly. One of the most important aspects to inspect is the electrical system. Here’s a guide to help you keep a sharp eye on the electrics when you’re house hunting.

1. Check the Age of the Electrical System

Understanding the age of the electrical system can give you insight into its condition. Homes built before the 1960s may have outdated wiring, while those built after 2018 are likely to meet more modern standards, such as the 18th Edition, which is the current standard for electrical installations. If the property is older, it’s wise to inquire about any rewiring or updates that have been done, and whether an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) has been completed. A lack of investment in this area could lead to safety hazards.

2. Look for Signs of Damage or Wear

During your viewing, take a moment to look for visible signs of damage. Check for cracked outlets, frayed wires, or exposed inner wire colours due to the outer sheath being cut too short. Also, look for burnt sockets. These could indicate underlying issues that may be costly to fix. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to request a professional inspection from a qualified electrician: an EICR.

3. Check the Fuse Box

The fuse box (or consumer unit) is one of the most critical components of a home’s electrical system. If you see old-fashioned fuse wires or a lack of RCDs (Residual Current Devices), this could be a red flag. Modern homes should have a circuit breaker with RCDs to protect against electrical shocks. The latest fuse boards include a Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCBO), which protects electrical circuits from overloads, short circuits, and earth faults. RCBOs are helpful because, if there is a fault on one circuit, the entire fuse board doesn’t shut down—only the affected circuit does. Fuse boards should also have surge protection, which safeguards more sensitive equipment in the event of an electrical surge.

4. Assess the Number of Outlets

Think about your lifestyle and how many electrical devices you’ll be using. Check if there are enough outlets in each room. Insufficient outlets can lead to heavy reliance on extension cords, which are a fire hazard. If you need more, additional outlets can usually be installed by a competent electrician, either by using trunking to extend the circuit or by chasing a channel into your walls or running cables under the floor to reach new locations on the wall.

5. Evaluate Any Signs of DIY Work

While a DIY enthusiast can be handy, electrical work requires qualified knowledge to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. Be cautious of any visible wiring that looks haphazard or unprofessional—it’s best to have a professional electrician take a look.

6. Look into Electrical Certification

Ask the current homeowner for any electrical safety certificates. In the UK, landlords are required to have an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) completed every five years for rental properties. If you’re buying a home to live in, consider having this done as part of your due diligence to ensure safety standards are met, and then have it checked at least every 10 years thereafter.

7. Consider Future Needs

As you envision your life in this home, think about potential future electrical needs. You may want to add more lighting, install a home office, or even an electric vehicle charging point. If the existing electrical system is inadequate for your future plans, you may need to budget for upgrades.

Finding a new home is a journey filled with excitement, and understanding the electrical system is a crucial part of that process. If you spot any red flags, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for advice and peace of mind.

At Electric4U, we’re here to help you navigate your electrical concerns, ensuring your new home is safe and well-equipped. Contact us today at 0208 004 4581 or email electrics@electric4u.org. Your safety is our priority, and we’re here to assist you every step of the way.

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