Socket covers aren't needed on UK sockets; check for damage, remove covers, avoid overloading, and test your RCD instead.
SC-01Check each socket for damageLook at every socket and switch in the room. Check for cracks, scorch marks, a faceplate that's loose, or one that doesn't sit flat against the wall. If you spot any of these, stop using that socket and get it checked rather than covering the problem up. A cracked or damaged faceplate needs replacing like-for-like — see HomeGraft's 'Replace a socket faceplate like-for-like' guide.
SC-02Remove any plastic socket covers you findUK sockets are built to BS 1363, which means they already have shutters inside that block the holes. The shutters only open when an earth pin goes in first, which makes it very hard for a child to get anything into the live holes. Plastic socket covers don't add any real protection, and some make things worse — a few are made badly enough to fit upside down, which forces the shutters open, and others crack or damage the shutter mechanism over time. HomeGraft doesn't recommend fitting them; if you've already got them, pull them out and bin them.
SC-03Check adaptors and extension leads for overloadCount what's plugged into each adaptor or extension lead and check it against the rating printed on it, usually 13A. Don't plug one adaptor into another — this is called daisy-chaining and it's a common cause of overheating. If you're short on sockets, use a single fused multi-way bar instead of stacking adaptors.
1 each · Fused multi-way extension lead SC-04Tidy flexes and keep them out of reachRoute flexes along the skirting rather than across open floor or doorways, where they're a trip hazard and more likely to get damaged. Use cable tidies or clips to keep them neat and away from where small children can grab or chew them. Never run a flex under a rug or carpet — it hides damage and traps heat.
1 pack · Self-adhesive cable clips (pack of 10) SC-05Test your RCDAn RCD (residual current device) cuts the power fast if there's a fault, and it does far more to prevent a shock than any socket cover. Press the test button on your consumer unit every few months — it should trip the switch off straight away. For the full method, and what to do if it doesn't trip, see HomeGraft's 'Test your RCDs' guide.
SC-06Know when you need a registered electricianSwapping a damaged faceplate for an identical one is a like-for-like job you can do yourself, following the correct guide. Moving a socket, adding a new one, or any work on the fixed wiring is different. That's a job for a registered electrician. Some of it, such as a new circuit or work near a bath or shower, is also notifiable under Building Regulations.
RULESKNOW THE RULES
Only like-for-like faceplate swaps are DIY. Moving or adding sockets is a job for a registered electrician, and a new circuit, or work near a bath or shower, is notifiable under Building Regulations.
Travis Perkins links are affiliate links: if you buy after clicking, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. B&Q and Amazon links are plain searches and earn us nothing.
Save this as a projectBack to all guides