New Plug Sockets

⭐ Introduction

New plug sockets are often needed when you want to add more points to power your electrical appliances, improve the layout of sockets in a room, or replace old or damaged outlets. Having enough conveniently placed sockets makes daily life easier and safer, helping to avoid overloading your existing sockets with extension leads.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, updating an older home, or simply want more sockets for modern gadgets, installing new plug sockets is a common electrical job in UK homes.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing a new plug socket means fitting an additional electrical outlet connected safely to your existing wiring. This usually involves:

• Identifying the most suitable circuit to take power from (often an existing lighting or socket circuit).
• Running cable either inside the walls or along surface-mounted trunking, depending on your home’s construction.
• Fitting a new socket outlet securely to the wall, flush-mounted where possible.
• Connecting the new socket to the circuit, ensuring correct wiring and earthing (grounding) for safety.
• Testing the socket to make sure it works correctly and is safe to use.

The electrician must comply with UK wiring rules, specifically BS 7671 (the IET Wiring Regulations), and may need to notify the local building control if certain conditions apply (for example, if fitting new circuits not replacing an existing one).

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

1. Make an enquiry
   Contact a qualified electrician—preferably one registered with a competent person scheme—to discuss your requirements and arrange a survey.

2. Survey and quote
   The electrician will visit your home to assess your current wiring and decide on the best way to add new sockets. After this, you will receive a written quote outlining the work and costs.

3. Arrange a date for the work
   Agree a convenient time for the installation. The electrician may need access to your consumer unit (fuse box) and internal walls.

4. Day of works: installation
   The electrician will isolate the relevant circuit for safety, run cables, fit the socket(s), connect them, and test everything thoroughly.

5. Completion and certification
   Once complete, you should receive an Electrical Installation Certificate or Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate if it’s a small job. The electrician will tidy the work area and explain any maintenance or safety points.

💷 Main costs to expect

• Labour costs: Typically £40–£70 per hour depending on location and electrician’s experience.
• Materials and parts: Each new socket outlet costs around £10–£25. Cable, back boxes, and accessories might add £20–£50.
• Extras: Surface-mounted trunking if wall chasing is impractical (~£10–£30), or extra work for hard-to-access places.
• Disposal: Minimal or included, unless significant waste from related work.
• Certification: Often included in overall price, but can be £30–£60 if separate.

Example: Two new sockets added to an existing circuit inside a standard drywall room might cost around £150–£250 all in.

📊 What affects the price

• Accessibility: Walls made of solid brick or concrete may require chasing, which takes more time and effort.
• Wiring complexity: Adding new circuits or extending existing ones across longer distances increases costs.
• Compliance and certification: When the job requires notifying building control or extra testing, costs rise.
• Remedial works: If the existing circuit is old or unsafe and needs repair before adding sockets.
• Location: London and the South East tend to have higher labour rates than other regions.
• Timeline: Emergency or rush jobs usually attract a surcharge.

⏱ How long does it take?

• Simple swap or adding a single socket: 1 to 2 hours.
• Installing multiple sockets or complex wiring: 3 to 6 hours or more depending on property size and wall type.
• New circuit wiring: Can take a full day or multiple visits in large-scale installations.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Adding or replacing plug sockets carries a risk of electric shock or fire if not done correctly. UK wiring regulations are strict, and Part P of the Building Regulations requires electrical work in domestic premises to be done safely.

While DIY might be possible if you are qualified or experienced, for most homeowners it is recommended to hire a registered electrician. Only a professional can certify the work to ensure legal and insurance requirements are met.

💰 Typical UK price range

• Small jobs (1–2 sockets on existing circuits): £120–£250 (VAT included at 20%)[^1].
• Medium jobs (3–5 sockets or new circuits): £250–£600.
• Larger or more complex work: £600+.

These are estimates and prices vary depending on location, electrician, and job complexity.

[^1]: VAT: Value Added Tax is charged at the standard rate of 20% on most domestic electrical services in the UK.

✅ Handy tips before you start

• Plan your socket locations carefully to suit your needs, considering appliance types and furniture layout.
• Make sure the electrician is competent and preferably registered with a scheme such as NICEIC, NAPIT, or Elecsa.
• Keep the work area accessible and clear of furniture to save time on installation day.
• Ask for written quotes and certificate copies; keep these alongside your other home maintenance records.
• Check warranty details for parts used – new sockets and labour often have at least a 1-year warranty.
• If in rented or leasehold property, check permission requirements for electrical changes.
• After installation, avoid overloading sockets and regularly check for signs of damage or overheating.

Adding new plug sockets safely and professionally improves both the convenience and safety of your home’s electrical system. Always prioritise safety and legal compliance to enjoy peace of mind with your electrical upgrades.