Help - Leak tripping electrics!

[Eve]

I've had problems with the electric all day, the power keeps tripping back off. The lights, thank goodness, are ok so far, it's the socket electrics.

Have been trying different circuits and testing plugs and have just noticed a massive damp patch on the kitchen ceiling with water dripping down the wall and into an eletric powered vent on the kitchen wall.

I've switched a wall switch off but have no idea if it relates to that or the washing machine etc... the vent hasn't been working since the Landlord played with it a few months ago.

No-one seems to be in upstairs but have left a note to contact me urgently.

Have managed to get some of the sockets back on but don't know how long as system keeps tripping off again.

Is there anything else I should be doing or not doing safety wise?

Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeelp!

[redcrx]

hi jenna,
ive just asked Mr CRX (hes with fire service). dont call them unless there is a fire or you may get a hefty bill for what they call a "special service"

call your electricity supplier and also the water board asap. The water board can gain access to the flat above if an emergency and cut off the supply. The electicity boad can check your supply and ensure its safe.

[Eve]

Hiya knobby, thanks for your help.

The daft thing is I've been tring plugs and equipment all day and only just noticed all the water in the kitchen, Landlord didn't notice either when he came round.

The electrics first went off about 10am this morning which is worrying as it suggests it's been like that all day.

I did wonder if it could be guttering or something as it's been raining all day but would make sense it's upstair's kitchen as my plumbed units are directly below the leak.

I have no idea what rcds or mcbs are but bizarrely the main lights are fine, seems to have got to the fan first but have a horrible feeling I might not have lights for much longer.

I'm hoping they come home soon but good to know there is somewhere to call if I need to.

[redcrx]

obviously isolate the sockets in the kitchen and whatever circuit thats effected

[Eve]

That's great, thanks redcrx.

Hated the thought of calling out one of the emergency services as they have far more important things to do.

I will give it an hour then call United Utilities and EON and see what they can do.

So far so good I've been able to get the laptop and tv on for more than 5 mins. I didn't realise how lost I'd be without electrics, no kettle, hairdryer, heater....

[Eve]

I've switched off and unplugged everything in the kitchen so hopefully that will help, water still dripping down the wall though.

[redcrx]

he also says keep and eye on it but it should be a fire risk if youve got trip switches. And dont keep turning the power on and off all the time to the sockets if youve got things like washing machines or anything with processors in as they could short or get messed up. (doesnt mean a lot to me)

hope you get it sorted soon.

[redcrx]

sorry, dont panic, that ought to say SHOULDNT be a fire risk

[Eve]

No worries :) Am leaving the trippy box thing alone now as been faffing with it all day trying to get it on for long enough to make a cuppa and dry my hair - didn't work though and had to walk to Tescos looking like a right minger trying to hide in a hood lol :)

Have got everything off now save what I can see (laptop, light and tv) and keeping an eye on it.