When power cuts in and out at one point

Power that cuts in and out at one socket, spur or small area usually needs the fault checked first, not repeated resetting or guesswork.

Written and checked by Willesden Smart Homes. Last reviewed August 2026.

We serve homes across NW London after checking the postcode and the job. See the Areas page .

What this usually means

This is for a local issue rather than a full power cut: a socket that works only sometimes, a spur-fed appliance that loses supply, or one small area that drops out now and then. Common causes include a loose connection, a failing accessory, moisture at an outside point, or another local fault that needs checking properly.

Typical solutions

  • Check the affected point and nearby local wiring or controls for loose, damaged, overheated or damp connections.
  • Test whether the problem stays local or points to a wider circuit, protective device or recent alteration.
  • Repair the confirmed local issue and explain clearly if the right next step is broader fault finding.

Basic information

  • The quickest first message is your postcode, a short note on what loses power, whether anything trips, and when it tends to happen.
  • If the point is hot, buzzing, crackling, loose, blackened or smells burnt, stop using it until checked.
Official sources and further guidance

Does power come and go at one point?

Describe the affected point, timing, weather or load pattern and any warning signs.