Electrical faults are the second largest cause of fire damage in thatched properties. Most insurers now insist that an inspection is carried out on a regular basis (every 5 - 10 years) by an NICEIC approved contractor, but householders are recommended to do their own, purely visual, check on at least an annual basis. This needs to be no more than ensuring there are no broken fittings, bare wires, overheating sockets or fuses that frequently blow or trip out. If such problems are discovered, always seek professional advice.

As a general rule, exposed wiring should be avoided in lofts, being prone to vermin attack. Light fittings in lofts should also be of the enclosed, bulkhead style.

The effective earth trip switch built into the majority of electrical circuits has now been largely superseded by the even more effective RCDs (residual current devices). These are far more sensitive and their employment is strongly recommended to cover all circuits in a thatched property.