Step 1: is it just your home?
- Check your consumer unit. If a breaker or RCD has tripped, see our guide to resetting a tripped breaker or RCD.
- Look outside. Are streetlights and neighbours' lights off too?
- If you have a prepayment meter, check it has credit.
Step 2: if the area is off, call 105
105 is the free national power cut number. It puts you through to the network operator for your area, from a landline or a mobile. In and around Banbury the local network is generally run by SSEN; parts of Northamptonshire are covered by National Grid. You don't need to know which: 105 routes your call. Both operators also post live power-cut maps online:
Your energy supplier (the company that bills you) doesn't fix power cuts, so calling them usually won't speed things up.
If you see fallen power lines or damaged substation equipment, stay well away and call 105 straight away, or 999 if someone is in danger. Use torches rather than candles where you can, and never leave candles unattended.
While you wait
- Switch off appliances that could start up unattended when the power returns, such as heaters, irons and hobs. Leave one light on so you'll know when it's back.
- Keep fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
- If someone in your home depends on powered medical equipment, ask the network operator about its Priority Services Register.
- Only your home is off and nothing has tripped (it could be your main fuse or meter tails; the network operator can advise on the supply side)
- Part of the house stays off after the area power returns
- Something smells of burning, or a switch or socket was damaged when the power came back
Sources and further reading
General guidance only, based on the sources above. Last reviewed October 2026. It isn't a substitute for an inspection by a qualified electrician.