Electrical safety: when to call an electrician

Call a qualified electrician when sockets feel hot, breakers trip repeatedly, there is a burning smell, lights flicker often or wiring is visibly damaged. Turn off the affected circuit only if you can identify it safely.

Do not touch exposed wires or use electrical equipment near water. Keep children and pets away from the affected area. In a fire or immediate danger, call emergency services first.

For a service request, share photos from a safe distance, the affected room, the symptoms and when they occur. Ask whether the visit includes inspection, testing, repair and replacement parts.

Burning smells, repeated tripping, exposed wiring, sparks or water near electrical equipment are safety issues, not ordinary DIY work. Keep people away, isolate power only if you can do so safely and seek urgent help where there is a fire or injury risk. Keep a record of the circuit affected, visible damage and any prior work for the qualified person attending.