5 Common Electrical Faults in Clapham Homes

After carrying out hundreds of electrical inspections and fault-finding jobs across Clapham, these are the electrical faults we encounter most often — and what we do to fix them.

1. Flickering or Dimming Lights

What causes it: The most common cause is a loose connection — at the light fitting, in a junction box or at the consumer unit. In older properties, loose connections at batten holders and ceiling roses are particularly common. Overloaded circuits and failing dimmers can also cause flickering.

How we fix it: We check all connections on the affected circuit systematically, starting at the fitting and working back. Loose connections are tightened or remade properly with appropriate connectors.

2. Dead Sockets

What causes it: A dead socket is usually caused by a tripped fuse on a fused spur, a tripped breaker at the consumer unit, or a loose connection somewhere in the ring circuit. Occasionally, a single socket can be wired incorrectly or have a fault in the accessory itself.

How we fix it: We check the consumer unit first, then the fused spurs on the circuit, then inspect the socket itself. Ring main continuity testing identifies breaks in the circuit.

3. Tripping RCDs or Breakers

What causes it: As described above — most commonly a faulty appliance, but also wiring faults, water ingress and overloaded circuits. In Victorian and Edwardian Clapham properties, deteriorating rubber-insulated cables are a frequent cause.

How we fix it: Systematic isolation of circuits and appliances to identify the source, followed by repair or replacement of the faulty section.

4. Burning Smells from Sockets or Switches

What causes it: Burning smells indicate arcing or overheating — a loose connection, an overloaded circuit or a failing accessory. This is a serious fire risk and should be treated as urgent.

How we fix it: We isolate the circuit, replace the affected accessory, inspect the wiring behind it and check the rest of the circuit for similar issues.

5. No Earth or Inadequate Bonding

What causes it: Older properties in Clapham — particularly those with rubber-insulated wiring — often have inadequate earthing. Main equipotential bonding to gas and water pipes is missing or deteriorated.

How we fix it: We install main bonding conductors to all services entering the property and supplementary bonding in bathrooms and kitchens where required. This is one of the most common inspection remedial items in Clapham.