Common problems we investigate
Electrical faults develop for many reasons, including damaged wiring, worn accessories, moisture ingress and faulty equipment. We regularly investigate:
- Circuit breakers and RCDs that repeatedly trip
- Sockets that have stopped working
- Lighting that fails or works intermittently
- Faulty switches and accessories
- Damaged or deteriorating wiring
- Outdoor faults and water ingress
- Consumer unit and distribution board problems
- Faults following building or renovation work
- Supplies to garages and outbuildings
RCD & circuit breaker tripping
Repeated tripping can point to a faulty appliance, damaged cable, moisture in equipment, insulation faults, problem accessories or a faulty protective device. We carry out appropriate testing to find the cause. Repeated tripping shouldn't be ignored, especially with signs of overheating or damage.
Sockets, switches & lighting
We repair dead or loose sockets, overheating accessories, faulty light switches and dimmers, intermittent connections, damaged outdoor sockets, flickering or failed LED downlights, and faulty security lighting, sensors and controls.
For landlords & businesses
We investigate faults reported by tenants in rental properties and lighting or power problems in commercial premises, explain the findings and agree next steps.
How fault finding works
- Discuss the problem. We ask about the symptoms, when it happens and any recent changes.
- Inspect the installation. We assess the affected equipment, circuits and accessible components.
- Test. Appropriate testing narrows down the fault and its location.
- Explain the findings. We tell you the likely cause and what repairs are needed.
- Repair. Where practical and agreed, we complete the repair and re-test.
Some faults need further investigation or parts, so not every issue can be resolved on the first visit.
Prices: our standard labour rate is £50 + VAT per hour, with a £70 + VAT first-hour charge for small jobs. The total depends on diagnosis time, repairs and materials.
Fault finding questions
Why does my RCD keep tripping?
An RCD disconnects the supply when it detects an imbalance between live and neutral current. Frequent tripping may be caused by faulty appliances, damaged wiring, moisture or insulation faults. Where several circuits share one RCD, a fault on one can switch off others. Repeatedly resetting it without finding the cause isn't recommended.
How much does an electrician cost in Welwyn Garden City?
Our standard rate is £50 + VAT per hour, with a £70 + VAT minimum first-hour charge for small jobs. Larger projects get a fixed-price quotation after assessment.