Repairs for switches, sockets and fixed accessories

What this usually means

Best when the fitting itself looks to be the problem: a switch that no longer works properly, a socket that is dead or loose, a pull cord that has failed, or a fused spur that looks damaged or unreliable. In many homes, the right first step is a local repair or replacement at that point rather than a bigger overhaul.

Typical solutions

• Replace a failed switch, socket, pull cord, fused spur or isolator like-for-like where the point and location allow it.
• Remake loose or poor connections and tidy the point where the accessory and cable condition still support a straightforward repair.
• Carry out the relevant checks on the repaired point and explain whether anything wider needs attention.

Basic information

• What you see at the wall is sometimes only the visible part of the problem. Heat damage, brittle insulation, a cramped back box or poor previous work can change the right next step.
• If the point is hot, loose, cracked, buzzing, scorched or smells burnt, stop using it until it has been checked.