There are several signs to look out for that indicate the age of your electrical system and whether your property needs rewiring

As a silent contributor to our daily lives, electricity provides light and warmth, and powers our electrical appliances. However, most of us take electricity in our houses for granted. The cables run inside the walls, and fuse boxes are often hidden away, making it easy to forget that electrical systems do need checking periodically.

Cables, switches, socket-outlets and other accessories deteriorate with use and misuse, and require regular checking. All houses should have their electrical systems checked at least every ten years.

Cables coated in black rubber - black rubber was phased out in the 1960's. Cables coated in lead or fabric are even older. Modern cables use PVC insulation.

• A fusebox with a wooden back, cast iron switches, a haphazard mixture of circuit boxes

• Older round pin sockets and round light switches, braided flex hanging from ceiling roses to light fittings, black switches, sockets mounted in skirting boards

• Wall mounted light switches in bathrooms

If any of these features are present in your house, your wiring system is probably several decades old and in need of rewiring. Safety in your home is vital, and we strongly recommend that you choose an NICEIC Approved Contractor to carry out any electrical work.