Electrical Fault Finding North London: Why Electrical Faults Cause More Fires Than Gas – And What North London Homes Must Do About It
Why Electrical Safety Checks Are Urgent in North London Homes
Summary: With a significant rise in electrical fires across London, especially in older North London homes, residents must prioritise regular fault finding inspections and EICR compliance. This detailed guide explores the causes, implications, and preventative strategies necessary for safer living.
The Silent Threat Behind the Walls
Electrical systems often go unchecked for decades—while gas systems are routinely inspected. Yet, over 55% of accidental domestic fires in Greater London are caused by faulty electrics. In contrast, gas-related incidents remain under 12%. This disparity reveals a growing problem: outdated, overloaded, and poorly maintained electrical systems present one of the most pressing fire hazards in homes across North London.
1. Understanding the Data: Electrical Fires vs Gas Fires
| Fire Source |
% of Incidents in London Homes |
Common Causes |
| Electrical Faults |
55% |
Overloaded sockets, faulty wiring, ageing consumer units |
| Gas Leaks |
12% |
Poor boiler maintenance, broken pipework |
| Other (e.g. candles, cooking) |
33% |
Negligence, flammable materials |
2. Why North London Is at Higher Risk
- Aging Housing Stock: Victorian and post-war buildings dominate areas like Camden, Islington, and Haringey. These homes often have outdated wiring.
- Converted Properties: Flats from converted houses often have overloaded electrical systems due to multiple occupancy and added demand.
- DIY Alterations: Uncertified home improvements often bypass proper electrical safety protocols.
3. What Is Electrical Fault Finding?
Electrical fault finding is the process of systematically identifying, diagnosing, and resolving issues in a home’s wiring or appliances. At RCD Electrical, our engineers use tools like thermal imaging, insulation resistance testing, and RCD trip diagnostics to uncover hidden dangers before they cause fires or shocks.
4. What Is an EICR and Why You Need It
The Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a legal requirement for landlords, but highly recommended for all homeowners. It assesses the safety of your wiring, consumer unit, and entire installation, producing a coded report. A \"Code 1\" indicates immediate danger and must be fixed urgently.
5. Real-Life Scenarios from North London
One client in Highbury had unexplained power cuts. An EICR revealed a cracked fuse board and melting cable insulation. In Finchley, we found a garden room wired illegally from a kitchen socket, posing severe risk of overload and fire.
6. The Dangers of Ignoring Electrical Faults
Ignoring small electrical issues like flickering lights or hot sockets can lead to:
- House fires
- Electric shocks or electrocution
- Insurance policy invalidation
- Non-compliance with tenancy laws
7. How Often Should Fault Finding Be Done?
| Property Type |
Recommended Inspection Frequency |
| Owner-occupied home |
Every 10 years |
| Rented property (private landlord) |
Every 5 years (by law) |
| HMO / Multi-tenanted |
Every 3–5 years |
| Commercial units |
Every 5 years |
8. Why Choose RCD Electrical?
We specialise in residential safety for North London homes. Our team is fully NICEIC-certified and local to Camden, Islington, Barnet, Enfield, and more. We provide:
- Free fault assessments
- Same-day emergency service
- EICR reports and full repairs
Conclusion: Prioritise Electrical Safety
With fire risks rising, North London homeowners must treat electrical safety with the same urgency as gas. Regular fault finding and EICR inspections save lives, prevent property damage, and ensure legal compliance. Don’t wait for a sign—get your electrics checked today.
Contact RCD Electrical:
📞 020 3488 2928
✉️ info@rcdelectrician.co.uk