One socket has died but the rest of the house is fine? Don’t worry — it’s usually a straightforward fault. Here’s what to check and when to call in help.
First: is it one socket or the whole circuit?
Test a few nearby sockets. If several are dead, it’s a circuit issue — check your consumer unit for a tripped breaker (see our guide to power off in one room). If it’s just one socket, the fault is likely at that outlet.
Common causes of a single dead socket
- A loose connection at the socket itself — a terminal that’s worked loose.
- A failed socket — the accessory has simply worn out.
- A loose connection upstream — on the ring or a spur feeding it.
What you can check safely
Make sure it isn’t just a tripped breaker, and that whatever you plugged in works elsewhere. Beyond that, don’t remove the faceplate unless you’re competent and the power is off — a loose connection can arc.
When to call an electrician
If it isn’t a tripped breaker, it needs a proper look. Our fault finding team will trace and repair it quickly and safely.
Common questions
First check it isn’t a tripped breaker at the consumer unit. If it’s just one socket, the fault is usually a loose connection or a failed socket — which needs an electrician to repair safely.
The dead socket itself may not be, but a loose connection behind it can arc and overheat. If there’s any burning smell, scorching or warmth, stop using it and call an electrician.
Because the fault is local to that socket or its spur — commonly a loose terminal or a worn-out accessory — rather than affecting the whole circuit.
Got a dead socket?
We’ll trace and repair it quickly — 24/7 across East London, no fix, no fee.
Call 020 7473 7807