Why is my electrical fire risk assessment showing high risk – Advice from Electriman, North London Electricians

What Does a High-Risk Electrical Fire Assessment Mean for You?

Receiving a high-risk rating on an electrical fire risk assessment can be alarming, but understanding what triggered it will help you act quickly and safely.

What It Usually Means

A high-risk result indicates that one or more serious issues have been identified in your home's electrical installation. This doesn't necessarily mean a fire is imminent, but it does mean the risk is significantly elevated and must be addressed urgently.

Common Reasons for a High-Risk Rating

Ageing wiring — older rubber-insulated or lead-sheathed cables that have become brittle and prone to cracking

No RCD protection — residual current devices dramatically reduce fire and electrocution risk; older consumer units may lack them

Overloaded circuits — too many appliances on one circuit, causing cables to overheat

Damaged or badly installed accessories — cracked sockets, loose connections, or DIY wiring that doesn't meet current standards

No earthing or poor earthing — prevents fault currents from being safely discharged

Outdated consumer unit (fuse board) — old rewirable fuse boxes offer far less protection than modern RCD-protected consumer units

Unprotected wiring routes — cables routed through walls without conduit or at unsafe depths

What You Can Safely Check Yourself

Look for scorch marks, discolouration, or bur

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.