02/09/2026
⚠️ DIY ELECTRICAL — WHAT WE FOUND: THE FACTS
Potteries Property Services — Called out by the property owner to inspect and replace this ceiling light pendant. What we found was a clear example of why DIY electrical work is risky — even when it seems to work fine.
The photos speak for themselves — here’s exactly what we found:
⚠️ EXPOSED LIVE TERMINALS — NO INSULATION
Bare, live electrical terminals completely uncovered — nothing to protect against accidental contact, short circuits, or arcing. A genuine and immediate risk of electric shock, shorting, or fire. Terminals were dangerously close to touching other components — this is dangerous, full stop.
⚠️ PENDANT CONNECTED TO THE WRONG TERMINALS
The pendant flex was wired into the incorrect Live/Neutral terminals within the ceiling rose. The light still lit up, and switching it off at the wall did kill power to the fitting — so it functioned — but it was NOT wired correctly. This is non-compliant with BS 7671 Wiring Regulations, causes confusion for anyone working on it later, and sets up a dangerous precedent for anyone assuming it’s been done properly.
⚠️ LOOSE, POOR & MESSY CONNECTIONS
Cables twisted, loose, and not properly secured; strands visible where they shouldn’t be; old insulation perishing; cable routing tight and under strain; earth connection questionable. None of this is acceptable or safe.
⚠️ NO REGARD FOR SAFETY STANDARDS
Clear evidence this was done by someone without proper knowledge or training. Even though it "worked," working does NOT mean safe. And crucially — your home insurance may be invalidated by uncertified DIY electrical work like this.
The honest truth:
It’s easy to look at a light that turns on and think "job done." But electricity doesn’t have to be visibly failing to be dangerous. Exposed terminals alone make this a genuine hazard — and that’s before we even look at the wiring.
We’re now carrying out a full, safe replacement — correctly wired, properly insulated, secured, and tested to current safety standards.
Always use a qualified electrician for electrical work Exposed terminals = NEVER okay — no exceptions
"It works" ≠ "It’s safe" — always get it checked
Potteries Property Services — Staffordshire, Cheshire & surrounding areas
Full property maintenance — electrical, roofing, guttering, rendering, lightning protection, cleaning & more.