Why does my circuit show continuity between neutral and earth when nothing is plugged in – Advice from Electriman, North London Electricians

Finding continuity between the neutral and earth terminals on a circuit when nothing is connected can feel alarming, but in many UK homes it is completely normal. Here is why, and what to do next.

Why it often happens normally

Most UK homes are connected to the grid via a TN-C-S supply, also called PME or Protective Multiple Earthing. With this type of supply, the electricity network deliberately connects the neutral conductor to the earth at the cutout and again at your meter or consumer unit. Because neutral and earth share a common reference point, a continuity tester will always show a connection between them, even with every appliance unplugged.

When it could mean a problem

If your property has a TT supply, common in rural areas where a local earth rod is used instead of a network earth, the neutral and earth should not show continuity unless they are connected somewhere inside the installation. In that case, continuity between the two could mean a wiring error, a damaged cable where the neutral and earth conductors have touched, or a fault inside a socket, light fitting, or junction box.

What you can safely check yourself

Check the supply type by looking at your cutout and meter. A TN-C-S supply usually has a thick cable connecting the neutral terminal to the earth bar in the consumer unit. A TT system will have an earth rod outside and no such link inside.

Check that every socket, switch, and light fitting on the

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