Charlotte Smith

A fishy smell in a home can indicate overheating electrical components, often caused by arcing from loose or faulty connections. Electrician James Harrison warns that such odours may signal burning bakelite in sockets, switches or fuse boards, posing an immediate fire risk. Homeowners are urged to switch off mains power and call a qualified electrician if the smell appears without a clear source. Preventative measures include obtaining an Electrical Installation Condition Report every five years and avoiding overloading plug sockets, particularly with high‑power appliances.