DIY Doctor UK DIY Forums

I have just managed to nick the ring main while trying to put a nail in the wall to hang a picture. Big flash and sparks everywhere.

Now I have calmed down and turned off the supply, I have chipped away the plaster to inspect the damage to the cable. There are scorch marks on the insulation and I don't fancy leaving things as they are.

Can I repair this myself or do I need to call an expert?

It also seems that the cable is just buried into the plaster (no conduit and not a stud wall) - should I address this also?

if there is going to be a picture there you could put a backbox and blanking plate there and use a connector block to repair it, if you want to plaster over the repair you would need one of the spring loaded connections so theres no screws to come loose.

unless you fancy chasing it all out and running a new cable, then you may as well put metal capping over it while your there.

Thanks.