A recent electrical report does not rule out a new fault. Treat a report of shocks, sparking, overheating or burning seriously.
Triage the report
- Ask what happened, where and whether anyone was injured or there is smoke or fire.
- Keep people away and follow emergency-service or electrician instructions on safe isolation.
- Check whether essential equipment, heating or medical needs make interim arrangements necessary.
Give the electrician useful information
- Provide the incident description, previous reports and any recent work or leak.
- Ask for the cause, extent and immediate safety action, not simply a replacement faceplate.
- Identify whether the fault affects the fixed installation, a supplied appliance or something else.
Restore and follow up
- Obtain the appropriate test or completion evidence before the affected equipment is returned to use.
- Tell occupants what has been repaired and any remaining restrictions.
- Update related safety records and investigate recurrence promptly.
Example: the EICR was satisfactory last month
A fictional socket starts overheating after damage to a connection. Arrange a new assessment of the reported fault. The earlier satisfactory inspection is relevant history, not a reason to dismiss a later danger.
What to do
- Tell occupants to avoid the affected equipment or area.
- Arrange urgent assessment by a competent electrician or emergency services if needed.
- Retain the findings and confirmation of safe restoration.
Evidence to keep
- Time and description of the incident and any safe photographs.
- Electrician's findings, isolation, repair and test records.
Sources and guidance
- Electrical safety standards: landlord guidanceUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Fitness of homes for human habitation: landlord guidanceWelsh Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Repairing Standard: electrical installations and appliancesScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026