Why Electrics Need Their Own Checklist
Electrical defects are less visible than cracked plaster but far more important. A socket that has not been connected, a smoke alarm with no backup battery, or a circuit that has not been certified are all safety issues — and all easy to miss without a systematic test. The good news is that most electrical checks are quick: a phone charger and a torch will reveal the vast majority of problems in under an hour.
Use this checklist with the full new build snagging checklist. Never remove a consumer unit cover or touch wiring — if you suspect a problem, log it and let a qualified electrician investigate.
How to Test Electrics Safely
You are testing that fittings work and are correctly installed — not opening anything or touching live parts. Carry a phone charger (or a plug-in socket tester) to check every socket, and a torch to inspect the consumer unit and any visible wiring.
What to Check
Sockets and switches
- Every socket works — test with a charger or plug-in tester.
- Sockets are securely fixed to the wall with no gaps.
- Switches operate with a positive click and are level.
- Single and double sockets are correctly spaced and not cracked.
- Outdoor sockets are weatherproof and on a protected circuit.
Lighting
- Every light fitting works and is securely fixed.
- Switches control the correct fitting (not another room).
- Downlights are the correct fire-rated type where required.
- No flickering or buzzing from fittings.
- Exterior lights work and are weatherproof.
Smoke, heat and CO alarms
- Alarms are mains-wired and interlinked (Building Regulations requirement).
- Each alarm has a working battery backup.
- Test button sounds all linked alarms.
- No chirping (indicates a low or missing battery).
- CO alarm fitted where there is a fuel-burning appliance.
Consumer unit and certification
- Consumer unit is labelled clearly for each circuit.
- RCD protection is present (test the RCD test button — it should trip).
- No tripped breakers that will not reset.
- Electrical Installation Certificate and Part P notification received.
Common Electrical Defects
The most common electrical defects in new builds are sockets that have not been connected, smoke alarms with missing or flat backup batteries, unlabelled circuits, and missing certification. A failed smoke alarm is a high-severity safety defect — report it immediately rather than waiting for the full snag list.
For the wider set of defects, see common new build defects. For the standards that cover electrics in the first two years, see the NHBC standards guide.
Electrical Snag Checklist
Work through each section, tick items off as you check them, and export a clean printable PDF to take with you on the day.
Sockets & Switches
Lighting
Smoke, Heat & CO Alarms
Consumer Unit & Certification
Do not remove any covers. If something looks unsafe — exposed wires, scorch marks, a burning smell — log it as high severity and report immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Snag Your Electrics with Snagr
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Related Snagr guides to help you inspect and protect your new-build home.
Common New Build Defects
Failed alarms and wiring issues are among the most common defects.
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