What is a PME failure and what should I do immediately – Advice from Electriman, North London Electricians

What is a PME Failure and What Should I Do?

PME stands for Protective Multiple Earthing, which is the most common earthing system used in UK homes. Under normal conditions, the electricity distributor's neutral cable also serves as your home's earth. This means metal parts of your appliances and wiring are kept safely at earth potential (0 volts).

A PME failure happens when that shared neutral wire breaks or becomes disconnected, either at the street, at the service head, or along the distributor's underground or overhead network. When this happens, exposed metalwork throughout your home — radiators, taps, appliance casings, light fittings — can rise to a dangerous live voltage, sometimes over 100 volts. This is extremely serious and has caused fatalities.

Warning Signs You Might Notice

Lights flickering or glowing dimly even when switched off

Appliances behaving strangely or failing

A mild tingle or shock from taps, radiators, or appliances

RCDs tripping for no obvious reason

Neighbours also losing power or experiencing similar issues

What You Should Do RIGHT NOW

Do not touch any metal surfaces — taps, radiators, cooker casings, or anything bonded to the earth system

Switch off your main consumer unit (fuse box) at the main incomer switch if it is safe to reach without touching metalwork

Do not use electrical appliances — unplug nothing if you have to touch metal to do

Need a qualified electrician in North London?

Electriman covers Mill Hill, Barnet, Finchley, Edgware, Enfield, Watford and surrounding areas. All work is Part P certified and fully insured.