Sockets in Skirting Boards – What They Indicate and Why They’re Not Ideal

Sockets in skirting boards can tell us a lot about the age and condition of an electrical installation. Once considered normal practice, this method is now outdated and no longer used in modern wiring. While these sockets may still function, they often indicate that a property hasn’t been upgraded in some time — and they come with safety, accessibility, and compliance concerns.

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What Does It Indicate? • Age of the Installation – Sockets in skirting boards are often a sign of an older electrical system. This was more common in the mid-20th century before modern wiring regulations tightened. • Possible Lack of Upgrades – If you spot skirting-mounted sockets, it may suggest that the property hasn’t had a full rewire for decades. • Non-Compliance with Current Standards – While not automatically unsafe, sockets mounted in skirting boards are no longer installed under BS 7671:2024, which requires outlets to be placed at safer, more accessible heights.

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Why It’s Not Ideal

1. Safety Concerns

• Skirting boards are low to the ground and more exposed to knocks, kicks, and vacuum cleaner damage. • This increases the risk of cracked accessories, loose connections, and potential electric shock.

1. Accessibility Issues

• Bending down to use sockets is inconvenient, particularly for elderly users or those with mobility issues. • Modern regulations require sockets to be positioned at a more accessible height, generally between 450mm and 1200mm above floor level in new builds.

1. Aesthetic & Practical Problems

• Sockets at floor level can easily be hidden behind furniture, making them awkward to use. • Dust and dirt from floor level can also enter the sockets more easily.

1. Regulatory Changes

• Building Regulations (Approved Document M) and BS 7671 Wiring Regulations now encourage higher mounting for improved accessibility and safety. • While older skirting sockets don’t need to be ripped out immediately, they are a strong sign that an installation may need reviewing.

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What Should Homeowners Do? • Don’t Panic – Having sockets in skirting boards doesn’t automatically mean your system is unsafe, but it does indicate the installation could be outdated. • Get an EICR – An Electrical Installation Condition Report will identify if your system is compliant and safe to use. • Plan for Modernisation – When upgrading, sockets should be moved to wall height and protected by 30mA RCDs in line with current standards.

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✅ Key Takeaway

Sockets in skirting boards are a red flag that your property’s wiring may be outdated. While they may still function, they don’t meet modern safety, accessibility, or design expectations. If you see them in your home, it’s worth speaking to a qualified electrician about upgrading your system to today’s standards.

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How Switch Electrical & Mechanical Services Ltd Can Help

At Switch Electrical & Mechanical Services Ltd, we specialise in modernising electrical systems to today’s standards. Whether it’s moving outdated skirting sockets, carrying out an EICR, or rewiring for full compliance, our NICEIC Approved Contractors can help.

📞 Call us: 0191 9052723 💬 WhatsApp: 07388 439427 📧 Email: switchtoday@mail.com 🌐 Visit: www.switchelectrical.uk

Delivering Excellence in Electrical Contracting Across the North East

Frequently Asked Questions (North East UK)

What are my legal electrical responsibilities as a Landlord in Newcastle? As a landlord in the North East, you are legally required to ensure that all electrical installations in your rental property are safe when tenants move in and are maintained in a safe condition throughout the duration of the tenancy. This includes obtaining a satisfactory Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every 5 years or at the start of a new tenancy. Switch Electrical & Mechanical Services provides comprehensive EICR audits for landlords across Newcastle, Sunderland, and Gateshead.

How much does an EICR cost for a standard property in the North East? The cost of an EICR depends on the size of the property and the number of circuits. Switch Electrical & Mechanical Services provides highly competitive, transparent pricing for landlords in the North East. We also offer discounted rates for landlords with multiple properties or HMOs requiring block certification.

What happens if my rental property fails an EICR? If an EICR identifies 'C1' (Danger Present) or 'C2' (Potentially Dangerous) codes, the installation is deemed 'Unsatisfactory'. Landlords have exactly 28 days to complete the necessary remedial work. Our team at Switch Electrical & Mechanical Services can provide immediate, fixed-price quotes for all remedial work following an inspection to ensure you remain legally compliant.