Signs that old electrical wiring needs renewing

Warm sockets, flickering lights, unearthed sockets: how to tell it's time to look at the wiring.

Wiring in older buildings may not have been designed for today's air conditioners, ovens and washing machines. If you see a few of the signs below, it's time to have it checked.

What to watch for

Warm sockets or plugs: a sign of a loose connection or undersized cable.
Flickering or dimming lights: especially when a powerful appliance switches on.
Breakers that trip often: the circuit may not be able to carry the load.
Unearthed sockets: common in older buildings.
An old panel: no RCD, no labels, or worn parts.
Discoloured socket covers: a trace of heat.

What to do

The first step is a survey: the existing wiring, the panel and how you use power are assessed on site. A full rewire isn't always needed; sometimes a new panel and reworking a few circuits is enough.

If you're planning a renovation, tackling the wiring at the same time saves both money and time.