Electrical faults aren't always obvious. Diagnosing them correctly is the job.
A tripping RCD, intermittent power loss or lighting fault can have several possible causes. We use professional test equipment and a systematic process to find the root cause.
At HJ Electrical, we take a methodical approach to fault finding - using professional test equipment and systematic investigation.
Fault finding is a diagnostic service rather than a fixed-price repair. Some faults are identified and fixed within the first hour; others need more detailed investigation depending on the complexity of the installation. Our priority is to diagnose accurately, explain our findings clearly, and recommend the most appropriate solution - not rush to conclusions or replace parts unnecessarily.
Whether you're a homeowner, landlord or small business, expect honest advice, clear communication and a professional approach from start to finish.
Common faults we investigate
Every installation is different, but faults tend to fall into a handful of categories.
Power & circuit faults
- Tripping RCDs and RCBOs
- Tripping circuit breakers
- Loss of power
- Partial power loss
- Intermittent electrical faults
- Nuisance tripping
- Overloaded circuits
Lighting faults
- Lights not working
- Flickering lights
- Faulty light fittings
- Faulty light switches
- LED lighting faults
- Outdoor lighting faults
- Security lighting faults
Socket & appliance faults
- Faulty sockets
- Damaged switches
- Burnt accessories
- Loose electrical connections
- Cooker faults
- Oven and hob supply faults
- Appliance circuit faults
Electrical safety issues
- Burning smells
- Electric shocks
- Overheating accessories
- Damaged wiring
- Water ingress
- Faults identified during an EICR
Our fault finding process
Every fault is different, but our approach stays the same — a structured process rather than assumptions.
Discuss the fault
We gather as much information as possible about what you've noticed and when it happens.
Visual inspection
A thorough look at the installation, accessories and any obvious signs of damage.
Targeted testing
Inspection and electrical testing aimed at the affected circuits, using calibrated test equipment.
Identify the root cause
We work methodically to find the underlying cause, wherever it's possible to do so.
Explain our findings
In plain English — what we found, what it means, and what your options are.
Options & quotation
Before any further work goes ahead, you'll have a clear quotation to consider.
Transparent pricing
Fault finding is charged based on the time required to investigate and diagnose the issue.
If the fault can be safely repaired during the investigation without significant additional labour or materials, we'll often complete the repair during the same visit. Where further work or replacement parts are needed, we'll explain the issue, discuss your options and provide a clear quotation before carrying out any additional work.
Out-of-hours, evening, weekend and emergency appointments may be subject to an additional call-out charge. Any additional charges are always confirmed before your appointment is booked.
Every fault-finding visit includes
- A systematic approach to diagnosis
- Professional, calibrated test equipment
- Honest advice and clear explanations
- Repairs only where necessary
- No unnecessary replacement of parts
- Safe isolation procedures where required
- Testing after repairs are completed
- Certification where applicable
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions we're asked most often about consumer unit replacements - see the full FAQ page for more detail.
Tripping consumer unit, faulty lighting, or intermittent power loss?
We'll carry out a thorough investigation to identify the cause and get your installation back up and running safely.