RMP Electrical: Services
Fault finding & repairs
Diagnose tripping breakers, dead circuits and intermittent faults, then fix them.
Electrical faults range from nuisance trips that are easy to trace to persistent or intermittent problems that need systematic testing to find. We deal with both. If something has stopped working, is tripping repeatedly, or is showing signs of a problem, it needs attention.
Common fault types
Tripping RCD. The most frequent call we get. An RCD trip indicates either a genuine earth fault on a circuit or an appliance. We isolate circuits and test to find which one is causing the trip, then trace it further to identify the source.
Dead circuit. A single circuit has stopped working but nothing has tripped. Often caused by a loose connection, a failed MCB, or a break in the cable. We test the circuit systematically to find the break.
Intermittent fault. The circuit works most of the time but fails occasionally. These are harder to find because the fault may not be present when we attend. We carry out insulation resistance testing and thermal checks to identify deteriorating connections or cable.
Burning smell or scorch marks. Treat this as urgent. Burning smells from a socket, switch, or consumer unit indicate overheating, which is a fire risk. We attend, isolate the relevant circuit, and identify the cause before advising on repair.
Flickering lights. Usually a loose connection, a failing lamp, or a problem with the dimmer. We trace it from the fitting back to the circuit.
How we trace a fault
We work methodically: visual inspection first, then electrical testing using insulation resistance, continuity, and loop impedance measurements. For intermittent faults, we use thermal imaging to identify connections that are running hot under load. We do not start replacing parts until we have established what the fault is.
When to call rather than wait
Some faults can wait for a scheduled visit. Others should not. Call us promptly if:
- The consumer unit is making a buzzing sound or has visible scorch marks
- There is a burning smell from anywhere in the installation
- A circuit keeps tripping and you cannot keep it on
- There is evidence of water ingress near electrical fittings
- An appliance has caused a trip and will not stay off the circuit
What we leave you with
Once the fault is found and repaired, we test the affected circuit to confirm it is performing correctly. If the work is notifiable (for example, a new section of cable installed as part of the repair), we issue the appropriate certificate. If it is minor work, we issue a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate.
We do not charge for time spent looking at a problem and then deciding it is beyond our scope. If we attend and the fault is something we cannot safely address on that visit, we will tell you why and what the next step is.
Common questions
- What causes an RCD to keep tripping?
- Current leaking to earth on one of the circuits it protects. Common causes: a faulty appliance, damaged cable insulation, or moisture in an outdoor or bathroom fitting. The fault needs diagnosing before the RCD can be left on safely.
- How do you locate a fault?
- We isolate circuits individually and test with a calibrated multifunction tester to identify both the nature and location of the fault. Most faults are located within an hour.
- When is a fault urgent?
- A burning smell, a circuit that trips immediately when reset, visible scorch marks on sockets or fittings, or the loss of power to multiple circuits at once. These should be treated as same-day jobs. A single tripped circuit with no obvious cause is less urgent but still worth looking at promptly.
- Do you carry parts to fix faults on the day?
- We carry the most common parts: MCBs, RCDs, socket components, and connection hardware. For unusual faults requiring specific parts, we will source them and return as quickly as possible.
- What paperwork comes with a fault repair?
- A Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate for most repairs. If the repair involves a new circuit or a significant modification to the installation, an Electrical Installation Certificate.
How quoting works
No hourly rates.
Fixed prices.
Every job is quoted individually so you know exactly what you're paying before any work starts.
Tell us about the job
Drop a quick message with what needs doing. A few details, a photo if you have one.
Get a fixed quote
We reply within the hour with a clear, fixed price. Quoted in writing. Locked in.
Price locked. Work starts.
Once you're happy, we book a time. The price you agreed is the price you pay.
Quotes are always free. All notifiable work properly certified to current Building Regulations.
What people say
Trusted across the Thames Valley.
“Came and installed outside sockets for me. Was a lovely guy, came on time and did a good job. The price was reasonable compared to some of the quotes I got from other companies. Would really recommend. Will call for work in the future as good tradespeople can be hard to find.”
Kirsty Pumfrey
Hayes
“Excellent experience with RMP Electrical. Changed an old tube light to a new LED strip, good price. Would use again.”
Chris Corthine
Hayes
“Reliable polite friendly service. Good value. Needed more electric plug sockets in all rooms. Was carried out with professional work and no mess left behind. Very impressed. Highly recommend.”
Sharon Nuro
Hayes
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