Electrical issues are one of the most common — and most dangerous — problems in older Wigan homes. Many properties across the area were built long before modern electrical safety standards existed, meaning their wiring simply isn’t designed to support the demands of today’s appliances, technology and heating systems.

But the big question many homeowners ask is:

“How do I know if my home actually needs a rewire?”

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 7 major warning signs that your Wigan home’s wiring may be unsafe — and why working with a trusted local specialist like GHE Electrical, Fire & Security LTD gives you peace of mind, protection and full compliance with UK electrical standards.

Why Electrical Safety Matters in Wigan

With a large number of older homes, 1930s semis and long-standing rental properties, Wigan has some of the highest rates of outdated wiring in the North West.

Unsafe wiring can lead to:

• Electrical fires
• Electric shock
• Damaged appliances
• Failed EICR inspections
• Invalidation of insurance
• Non-compliance for landlords

This is why more homeowners and landlords rely on GHE Electrical, Fire & Security LTD, the company known across Wigan for delivering safe, efficient and compliant electrical installations — alongside robust fire and security systems.

7 Warning Signs Your Wigan Home May Need a Rewire

1. Frequent Tripping or Blown Fuses

If your consumer unit keeps tripping, it’s a major sign that your wiring is struggling to handle the electrical load.

Modern homes use far more power than older wiring was ever designed for — meaning your circuits can overload easily.

If tripping happens regularly, you need a professional inspection.

2. Flickering, Dimming or Buzzing Lights

Lights that flicker, dim, or buzz are not “just annoying” — they can indicate:

• Loose wiring connections
• Overloaded circuits
• Faulty or outdated wiring

This is one of the most common early warning signs reported by Wigan homeowners.

3. Burning Smells or Discoloured Sockets

A burning smell coming from sockets or switches is a serious fire hazard.

Discolouration around outlets suggests heat damage — often caused by:

• Loose connections
• Arcing
• Melted wiring insulation

If you smell burning, turn off the power immediately and call a qualified electrician like GHE.

4. Old-Style Fuse Boxes or Consumer Units

If your home still uses:

• A fuse box with pull-out carriers
• No RCD protection
• A metal or plastic unit older than 20–25 years

…then your system is not compliant with current UK regulations.

Modern consumer units with RCDs provide life-saving protection — and older ones should be replaced as part of a rewire.

5. Rubber, Fabric or Aluminium Wiring

Many older Wigan homes still contain:

• Rubber-insulated wiring (pre-1960s)
• Fabric-insulated wiring (pre-1940s)
• Aluminium wiring (rare, but unsafe)

These materials degrade over time and can become brittle or exposed, significantly increasing electrical fire risks.

If your home has old cable materials, a full rewire is essential.

6. Sockets That Heat Up or Make Crackling Sounds

Sockets should never feel hot to the touch.

Heat indicates resistance or poor connections, which can lead to:

• Arcing
• Burned wiring
• Electrical fire

Crackling or popping noises are also major red flags.

7. Your Home Is Over 25–30 Years Old

Even if you haven’t noticed any issues, wiring naturally deteriorates over time.

If your Wigan home:

• Is over 25–30 years old
• Has never been fully rewired
• Has had multiple DIY electrical additions

…then you should book an inspection.

GHE Electrical, Fire & Security LTD can carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to determine the safety of your installation.

Why Choose GHE Electrical, Fire & Security LTD for Rewiring in Wigan?

GHE is one of Wigan’s most trusted electrical specialists — known for delivering safe, compliant and affordable rewires for homeowners, landlords and businesses.

Here’s why locals rely on them:

✔ Safety-first approach

Your wiring is replaced to the latest BS 7671 standards.

✔ Fast, efficient rewiring

GHE completes rewires with minimal disruption and clean, organised workmanship.

✔ Affordable, transparent pricing

No hidden extras — just fair, honest local rates.

✔ Fire & security system expertise

Alongside rewiring, GHE can install:

• Smoke & heat alarms
• CCTV
• Intruder alarms
• Access control
• Security lighting

Everything is completed in one seamless process.

✔ Trusted by homeowners, landlords & property managers

Whether it’s a rental property, family home, commercial unit, or full refurbishment, GHE delivers reliability and peace of mind.

What Should You Do If You Notice Any Warning Signs?

If you’ve noticed one or more of the issues above, the safest next step is to arrange a professional inspection.

Do not ignore electrical problems.

They rarely get better on their own — and usually get worse.

GHE Electrical, Fire & Security LTD can carry out a full safety assessment and advise you on whether a rewire is necessary.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Risk Your Home’s Safety

A full rewire is one of the most important investments you can make in your Wigan property.

It protects your family, your home and your long-term peace of mind.

If you suspect your wiring is unsafe — or simply want the reassurance of a professional check — GHE Electrical, Fire & Security LTD are the trusted local experts to call.

Get Your Free Rewire Assessment Today

For reliable, affordable and safety-led electrical rewiring in Wigan:

GHE Electrical, Fire & Security LTD

✔ Electrical Specialists

✔ Fire & Security Experts

✔ Trusted by Homeowners, Landlords & Businesses