Sockets and switches are the accessories used every day, so it’s no surprise they’re a common source of both minor annoyances and genuine faults — a socket that’s stopped working, a switch that’s cracked, or simply not having enough sockets in a room. Voltify Contractors handles socket and switch installation, replacement and repair across East and South-East London, as part of our full range of electrical services.
What Our Socket & Switch Service Covers
- installing additional sockets or switches where you don’t currently have enough;
- upgrading a single socket to a double (a common request in older properties with limited sockets);
- replacing existing sockets or switches that are outdated, damaged, or simply need updating;
- repairing sockets or switches with an identified fault — not working, loose, cracked, or making a noise;
- fitting outdoor sockets where required (for garden power tools, for example), within Voltify’s usual electrical scope.
Common Reasons Customers Book a Socket or Switch Electrician
- a socket has stopped working, or feels loose when a plug is inserted;
- a switch is cracked, doesn’t click properly, or has stopped controlling its light;
- a room simply doesn’t have enough sockets for how it’s actually used;
- an older single socket needs upgrading to a double to reduce reliance on extension leads and adaptors;
- a specific outdoor socket is needed for the garden, driveway or a shed.
Repair or Replace a Faulty Socket or Switch?
A faulty socket or switch doesn’t always need full replacement:
- Repair may be appropriate if the accessory itself is sound and the fault is isolated — for example, a loose connection behind the faceplate.
- Replacement tends to make more sense for cracked, scorched, very old, or repeatedly faulty accessories, where a like-for-like fix wouldn’t resolve the underlying issue.
This is confirmed on site, since it isn’t safe or accurate to judge from a description alone. For independent advice on socket and electrical safety at home, see Electrical Safety First. If you’re not sure whether a socket is due for replacement at all, our guide on when electrical sockets should be replaced explains the warning signs and the other common reasons.
When It Might Be More Than the Accessory Itself
If a socket keeps tripping the circuit even after being replaced, or if more than one socket on the same circuit is affected, the cause may sit further back in the circuit rather than at the accessory. In that case, electrical fault finding is the more appropriate route — replacing the accessory again wouldn’t resolve a problem that isn’t actually with the accessory.
What Can Affect the Scope of a Socket or Switch Job
- Existing circuit and wiring. Adding a socket where cable already runs nearby is more straightforward than routing a new supply from further away.
- Wall type and surface. Solid wall, stud wall, or a wall with existing chasing all affect how straightforward fitting or moving a socket is.
- Single to double upgrades. These sometimes require a slightly larger back box or minor wall preparation, depending on the existing fitting.
- Outdoor sockets. These need to be suitably rated for outdoor use and appropriately protected, which is factored into the job rather than treated as a standard indoor socket swap.
What to Have Ready Before Booking
- how many sockets/switches are involved, and whether it’s installation, an upgrade, or a repair;
- which rooms are affected, and roughly where each accessory is;
- any specific fault symptoms, if this is a repair;
- whether you have a preferred style/finish, or want advice on suitable options.
The documented minimum call-out is £80 for the first hour; the total cost depends on the number of accessories, whether new wiring is needed, and access, and is confirmed once these are known.
Areas We Cover for Socket & Switch Installation
Voltify Contractors installs and repairs sockets and switches across East and South-East London, including Canary Wharf & E14, Stratford & E15, Bow & E3, Canning Town & E16, Greenwich & SE10, Woolwich & SE18 and Barking & IG11. See the areas we cover for full details.
