Electric Shock When Touching A Socket

You receive a shock when you touch the faceplate of a plug socket or while plugging something in.

What's happening?

A shock from a plug socket means there is a fault causing the socket faceplate or the area around it to become live. UK sockets have shuttered openings designed to prevent accidental contact with live parts, but a wiring fault inside the socket can energise the faceplate itself, particularly if it is a metal socket with a faulty earth. Shocks while inserting or removing plugs may also indicate damaged or worn socket contacts.

What usually causes it?

Loose or disconnected earth wire inside the socket
Damaged insulation on cables behind the socket
Cracked or damaged socket allowing access to live terminals
Incorrectly wired socket with live and earth reversed
Worn or damaged socket contacts causing arcing

Is it dangerous?

This is dangerous. A socket carrying mains voltage on its faceplate can deliver a serious shock. Children are particularly at risk if they touch sockets at their height. If the shock occurred while inserting a plug, there may be damage to the socket contacts that could also cause overheating and fire risk.

Can I fix it myself?

Do not use the socket. Turn off the circuit at the consumer unit and do not plug anything into the socket. If the socket is visibly damaged, cracked, or discoloured, that confirms a fault. Do not remove the faceplate to look inside — leave this to a qualified electrician.

When should you call an electrician?

Call an electrician promptly. A socket that gives shocks needs professional inspection and likely replacement. If you have received shocks from multiple sockets, the earthing on the circuit may be compromised, which is a more serious issue requiring urgent attention.

What will the electrician actually do?

Isolate the circuit and remove the socket faceplate
Inspect all connections and the condition of the cable
Test earth continuity, polarity, and insulation resistance
Replace the socket and repair any damaged wiring
Test the RCD protection for the circuit

What will it cost to fix?

£80–£180

A socket replacement with testing is at the lower end. If multiple sockets or the circuit earthing need attention, costs will be higher.

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Frequently asked questions

We’re happy to answer all your questions.

Why did I get a shock from my plug socket?

The most common cause is a faulty earth connection inside the socket. Metal faceplates are especially prone to this — if the earth wire comes loose, the entire faceplate can become live.

Are metal sockets more dangerous than plastic ones?

Metal sockets require a proper earth connection to the faceplate. If the earth fails, a metal faceplate can become live, whereas a plastic faceplate cannot conduct electricity. Both types are safe when correctly installed.

Can a faulty socket cause a fire?

Yes. Loose connections inside a socket can cause arcing and overheating, which can ignite the plastic of the socket or surrounding materials. Discolouration or a burning smell are warning signs.

Sources & References

Electric Shock From Light SwitchHigh risk Socket Cracked Or DamagedHigh risk Socket Loose Or WobblyCaution Emergency Electrician Cost£100–£350 EICR Cost£100–£300

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