Burning Smell from Plug Socket
A smell of burning plastic or scorching coming from a socket, sometimes with visible discolouration.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Loose connection causing arcing and overheating
- 2Overloaded socket or adaptor
- 3Damaged internal wiring
How Urgent Is This?
This needs prompt attention. Delaying could cause further damage, safety risks, or significantly higher repair costs.
What Needs to Be Done
Turn off the circuit immediately. An electrician will replace the damaged socket, check for heat damage to the wiring behind it, and test the circuit for safety.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £512 – £1,090 | Materials: £144 – £450
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionPlanning Permission Guidance
Some fixes for this problem may require planning permission or building regulations approval. Check if your project needs permission:
How to Prevent This
Never overload sockets. Use one plug per socket or a fused extension lead. Replace any sockets that feel warm to the touch.
Related Problems
A circuit breaker in the consumer unit keeps tripping, cutting power to part or all of the house.
One or more plug sockets have no power, even though the rest of the room works fine.
Lights flicker, dim, or flash intermittently, sometimes across multiple rooms.
Other Electrician Problems
Lights flicker, dim, or flash intermittently, sometimes across multiple rooms.
A circuit breaker in the consumer unit keeps tripping, cutting power to part or all of the house.
One or more plug sockets have no power, even though the rest of the room works fine.
An audible buzzing or humming noise coming from a light switch when the light is on.