Socket Cracked Or Damaged

The plastic faceplate of a socket is cracked, broken, or has a piece missing, exposing the interior.

£60 – £130High Risk

What is this?

A cracked or damaged socket faceplate is a serious safety issue. The plastic faceplate is a critical insulating barrier between you and the live wiring inside. If it is cracked, broken, or has pieces missing, there is a risk of direct contact with live terminals carrying 230 volts. UK sockets also have internal shutters that prevent access to live and neutral contacts — if the socket is damaged, these shutters may not function correctly.

Common causes

Impact damage from furniture, vacuum cleaners, or heavy objects
Overheating from loose connections causing the plastic to melt or deform
Age and UV degradation making the plastic brittle
Excessive force when inserting or removing plugs
Poor quality socket that has deteriorated prematurely

Is it dangerous?

Yes, this is dangerous. A cracked socket can expose live terminals carrying 230 volts. Even a hairline crack can admit moisture, dust, or allow a finger or object to contact live parts. If the crack shows any internal wiring or the shutters are not functioning, there is a direct risk of electric shock. Children are particularly at risk as sockets are often at their eye level.

Can I fix it myself?

Do not use the socket. Turn off the circuit at the consumer unit and tape over the socket so nobody uses it. Do not attempt to repair a cracked socket with glue or tape — it must be replaced entirely. While a competent DIYer can replace a faceplate, if there is any sign of overheating, melting, or damaged wiring behind the socket, call an electrician.

When to call an electrician

Call an electrician if the damage shows signs of overheating (discolouration, melting, burning smell), if the wiring behind the socket is visible, if you are not confident replacing the socket yourself, or if the damage was caused by a spark, flash, or trip.

What will an electrician do?

Isolate the circuit and remove the damaged socket

Inspect the wiring and back box for heat damage or deterioration

Check the connections are tight and the cable insulation is intact

Fit a new socket of the correct type and rating

Test the new socket for correct polarity, earth continuity, and operation

Typical cost

£60 – £130

A straightforward socket replacement is quick and inexpensive. If the wiring behind has heat damage and needs replacing, costs will be higher.

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Sources & References

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use a cracked socket?

No. Stop using it immediately and turn off the circuit at the consumer unit. A cracked faceplate can expose live parts and create a shock risk.

Can I repair the crack with glue?

No. Gluing a cracked socket does not restore its safety. The faceplate must be replaced entirely. The plastic is the insulating barrier between you and 230 volts — it must be intact.

Why has my socket faceplate melted?

Melting or discolouration around the plug holes indicates overheating, usually from loose connections or an overloaded socket. This is a fire risk and the socket and wiring should be inspected by an electrician.

What if my child poked something in the crack?

UK sockets have internal shutters to prevent contact with live parts, but a damaged socket may have non-functioning shutters. If a child has received a shock, seek medical attention immediately and turn off the circuit.

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