After-hours electrical help: what to tell the electrician

Arrange after-hours electrical help with clear symptoms, postcode and access details, and confirm the current call-out charge before booking.

For an assessment or quotation, see our emergency electrical help. The service page explains how to discuss the work for your property.

Explain the immediate situation

Tell the electrician whether there is loss of power, damaged equipment, a burning smell or another symptom. If there is smoke or fire, leave the property and call 999. Do not touch exposed wiring or attempt to open equipment while waiting for advice.

Give the location and access details

Provide the full postcode, contact number and any restrictions on entry or parking. Mention equipment or occupants affected by the interruption. Attendance depends on current availability, which should be confirmed directly rather than assumed from a website headline.

Confirm the applicable charge

Our call-out charge after 5pm and at weekends is £150 plus VAT (£180 including VAT). Ask what the visit covers and how additional investigation, parts or repair work will be agreed. The cause of a fault may need assessment before a repair price can be confirmed.

Keep useful records for follow-up work

Make a note of what happened and any recent changes to appliances or building work. Keep the details of work carried out and any further recommendations. If another visit is needed, send this information with the enquiry so the next stage has a clear scope.