Safety first
If you can see smoke or flames, or the smell is strong and getting worse: get everyone out, close doors behind you and call 999. Don't use water on electrical fires.
If there's no smoke or fire
- Try to find where the smell is coming from: a plug, socket, switch, light fitting, appliance or the consumer unit.
- If it's an appliance or plug and it's safe to reach, switch it off at the socket and unplug it.
- If it's a socket, switch or fitting, switch that circuit off at the consumer unit. If you're not sure which one, switch off the main switch, as long as you can do so safely and with dry hands.
- Don't switch things back on to 'test' them.
- Call an electrician to find and fix the cause.
Common causes
- Overloaded sockets or extension leads
- Loose connections in sockets, switches or the consumer unit
- Damaged plugs or flexes
- Light bulbs too powerful for the fitting
- Faulty appliances
Working smoke alarms give early warning. See our guide to smoke alarms.
When to call an electrician
Any time you've smelled burning from wiring, a fitting or the consumer unit, even if it's stopped. The cause usually needs finding and fixing.
Sources and further reading
- Electrical Safety First – Fire prevention tips
- Electrical Safety First – Overloading sockets
- Electrical Safety First
General guidance only, based on the sources above. Last reviewed October 2026. It isn't a substitute for an inspection by a qualified electrician.