Explore the power cuts hub

When the lights go out, first check for immediate danger. If you see damaged electrical equipment, a fallen line or sparks, keep away. Call 105 to report the hazard. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger.

Check whether it’s just your home

If it’s safe, look at the street lights and neighbours’ windows or ask next door. You can also use the postcode finder on Powercut105 to find your network operator and its outage map. Don’t go outside if conditions are unsafe.

Check your trip switches

If only your home is off, use a torch to check the consumer unit, sometimes called the fuse box. A switch in the off position may show that a circuit has tripped. Follow the instructions for your consumer unit and don’t touch damaged wiring or equipment. SSEN says its team can help its customers who can’t reset a trip switch or check whether the fault affects only their property. Call SSEN on 105 for that help. NIE Networks says trip switches can be inside or outside a property.

If you can’t reset a trip switch, SSEN customers can call 105 for help. For another network operator, use 105 and follow its advice.

Check a prepayment meter

Check the meter display. If you’re in Northern Ireland and a prepayment meter still shows a display, NIE Networks says to try holding 0 to reset it. That instruction is for NIE Networks customers. In Great Britain, check your supplier’s instructions rather than trying an unverified button sequence.

Report the power cut

In Great Britain, report a power cut online or call 105. Powercut105 says online reporting is the quickest route. The free 105 number connects you to the network operator for your area. The operator manages the local electricity network and provides updates about faults.

In Northern Ireland, call NIE Networks on 03457 643 643 or check NIE Powercheck. Don’t use a Great Britain operator’s number for a Northern Ireland fault.

While you wait

Leave one light switched on so you know when the power returns, and switch off other appliances that were running. Keep the fridge and freezer doors shut. Save your phone battery for calls and updates. For the wider first-hour and overnight plan, read what to do during a UK power cut.

If someone relies on powered medical equipment, follow the plan agreed with their equipment supplier and clinical team. Read our medical equipment power-cut guide and check the Priority Services Register.

Check anyone who comes to the door

Powercut105 advises checking the identification of anyone who says they work for the power company. You can call 105 free to confirm their identity. Genuine staff won’t mind waiting outside while you check.

Planned power cuts

Powercut105 says network operators aim to give at least 48 hours’ notice for planned work. Emergency work may not allow that notice. Check your network operator’s updates for information about your address.

Common questions

Why has my electricity gone off but my neighbours’ hasn’t?

A fault can affect one property. If it’s safe, check your consumer unit and meter display. Contact your network operator if the cause isn’t clear.

Is 105 free?

Yes. 105 is free and connects people in Great Britain to their local network operator.

Should I call my energy supplier or 105?

For a power cut in Great Britain, contact your network operator through 105 or its online service. Your supplier handles your energy account.

My trip switch won’t stay up. What now?

SSEN customers can call 105 for help with a trip switch or checking whether the fault is inside their property. For another network operator, use 105 and follow its advice.

How much notice do planned power cuts get?

Powercut105 says operators aim to give at least 48 hours’ notice for planned work. Emergency work may not allow that.

Who do I call about a power cut in Northern Ireland?

Contact NIE Networks on 03457 643 643 or check its Powercheck service.

Read our affiliate disclosure.

Sources

Sources checked 4 November 2026.