Water On Electrics: What To Do

What's happening?

Water coming into contact with live electrical components is one of the most dangerous domestic electrical emergencies. Water conducts electricity and creates a path for current to flow to earth: potentially through anyone who touches the wet surface. This can happen from burst pipes, roof leaks, overflowing tanks, or even a leak from an upstairs bathroom.

What usually causes it?

• Burst pipe above or behind a socket or light fitting
• Roof leak dripping onto ceiling light fittings or loft wiring
• Overflowing tank in the loft soaking wiring and junction boxes
• Leaking radiator or plumbing near a socket or consumer unit
• Condensation build-up in a poorly ventilated consumer unit

Is it dangerous?

This is extremely dangerous. Water on live electrics can cause electric shock, electrocution, and fire. Do not touch any wet electrical fitting, socket, or switch. If water is dripping onto your consumer unit, do not touch it without insulated protection. If you cannot safely isolate the supply, call an emergency electrician and the fire brigade.

Can I fix it myself?

If you can safely reach your consumer unit without touching wet surfaces, turn off the main switch using a dry hand. Stop the water source if possible (turn off the stopcock). Do not touch any wet sockets, switches, or light fittings. Do not use electrical appliances in the affected area. Open windows to help dry the area but do not use fan heaters plugged into affected circuits.

When should you call an electrician?

Call an emergency electrician immediately. Even after the water has been stopped and the area has dried, the electrical installation must be inspected and tested before the supply is restored. Water can cause hidden damage to insulation and connections that creates ongoing fire and shock risks.

What will the electrician actually do?

• Assess the situation and safely isolate affected circuits
• Inspect all sockets, switches, junction boxes, and fittings in the affected area for water damage
• Test insulation resistance on all affected circuits once the area has dried
• Replace any water-damaged components including sockets, back boxes, and cable where necessary
• Test and certify the installation before restoring power

Who fixes this

• Emergency electrician
• Electrical fault finding

What it usually costs

Emergency Electrician Cost

£80–£100 / hour

Electrical Fault Finding Cost

Priced on survey

Questions people ask

Sources & References

1. HSE: Electrical Safety at Work
2. Electrical Safety First: Safety Guidance
3. Electrical Safety First: Electric Shock First Aid