Adding Sockets in a London Home: Spurs, Circuits and Paperwork

Most London homes were wired long before people had laptops, phones, TVs, routers and kitchen gadgets in every room, so running short of sockets is one of the most common reasons people call an electrician. Adding sockets is usually straightforward, but the right method depends on the circuit you already have. This guide explains the options and the paperwork.

Ring circuits and radial circuits

Many UK homes have socket ring circuits, where the cable runs from the consumer unit round the room and back. Others, especially newer or rewired homes, use radial circuits, where the cable runs out to the last socket and stops. Before adding sockets, an electrician tests the circuit to find out which type it is, whether it is sound, and how much it already carries.

The main options

• Extending the circuit: adding sockets into the existing ring or radial, where the circuit can take the extra load.
• A spur: a single branch from an existing socket. Spurs are limited in number and type, and too many unfused spurs is a common fault on EICRs.
• A new circuit: often the best option in a kitchen, home office or extension, where there will be heavy loads.

Do not rely on extension leads

Strings of extension leads and adaptors are one of the most common things we find in rented flats and HMOs. They overheat when overloaded, especially with heaters, kettles and tumble dryers. A few extra sockets cost less than putting right the damage from a fire.

RCD protection and paperwork

New sockets generally need 30 mA RCD protection. If the circuit has none, the consumer unit may need upgrading first. A new circuit is notifiable under building regulations and should come with an Electrical Installation Certificate, while adding to an existing circuit should come with a Minor Works certificate. Our guide to EICR, EIC and Minor Works certificates explains the difference.

Kitchens and outdoor sockets

Kitchens have their own considerations around worktops, appliances and cooker circuits, covered in our guide to kitchen electrics. For sockets outside, see our guide to garden and outdoor sockets.

Book an electrician

Energy North Ltd covers North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians, and can usually attend within 48 hours. See our EICR service to have your circuits checked first.