Use a furniture plan
Mark the bed, sofa, television, desk and any built-in storage on a room sketch. Identify outlets that would be hidden behind furniture and where plugs or chargers need room to fit. Think about reaching the outlet as well as seeing it.
For a desk, list the computer, monitors, lamps and charging devices. In a bedroom, consider both sides of the bed and where occasional equipment is used. A specific use is a better starting point than choosing an arbitrary socket count.
Decide what is being added or moved
Decide what is being added or moved
Distinguish a replacement accessory, a single-to-double change, a relocated outlet and an entirely new position. They can require different wall work and access. Photos of the room and existing accessories help explain the brief.
The circuit must be assessed for the intended alteration. Adding outlets does not increase the supply available to the circuit, and an extra position does not automatically mean that a new circuit is necessary.
Check USB expectations before selecting the accessory
Check USB expectations before selecting the accessory
USB-A and USB-C describe connectors, not a universal charging performance. Compare the chosen socket’s output and supported charging protocol with the device and cable requirements. Outputs can also be shared between ports.
For laptop charging, compare the accessory’s stated output and supported protocol with the laptop and cable requirements before purchase. Also check its mounting space so the selected socket fits the planned installation.
Agree routes and repairs before painting
Agree routes and repairs before painting
Tell Max the wall construction and whether floors or ceilings are accessible. Concealed and surface routes have different effects on finished surfaces; the practical options depend on the room.
Ask the quote to identify any chasing, plaster repairs and decoration responsibilities. Finish the electrical alterations at the agreed point in the programme so a newly decorated wall is not opened unexpectedly.
Your planning checklist
- Furniture positions and accessible outlets
- Devices and appliances used together
- New, moved or replacement positions
- USB and finish requirements
- Plastering, flooring and decorating dates
Questions answered
Should extra sockets be fitted before plastering or decorating?
Agree the positions and routes before finishes are completed wherever possible. Concealed alterations may require chasing or other access, while surface routes remain visible. Ask who makes good the walls and when that work happens, so the electrical changes fit the plasterer and decorator programme.
Ask Max about thisHow do I plan sockets for furniture that has not arrived?
Use the final furniture dimensions and a room sketch rather than guessing against an empty wall. Include doors, drawers, plugs and space to reach the outlets. Tell the electrician which items are fixed and which are still undecided, so changes can be discussed before the routes are installed.
Ask Max about thisWill adding more sockets let me use more powerful appliances?
No. Additional outlets do not increase circuit capacity. The existing installation and equipment used together still need assessment, particularly if the changes add significant appliance demand rather than simply moving convenient charging points.
Ask Max about thisAre USB-C wall sockets suitable for every laptop?
No. Compare the socket output and supported charging protocol with the laptop and cable requirements. The connector shape alone does not establish charging performance, and output may be shared between ports. Send both product specifications before choosing an accessory to replace a separate laptop charger.
Ask Max about thisCan I add sockets without opening a newly decorated wall?
There may be an accessible or surface-mounted route, but the room construction and existing circuit determine the options. Describe which finishes you want to protect and provide room photographs. An assessment can compare the likely disturbance before you decide on positions or book further decoration.
Ask Max about thisFurther reading
These references explain the relevant safety and building guidance. Building Regulations guidance here applies to England.
- Household electrical questions and socket planning
- Extension leads, cable reels and block adaptors
- Moulded wiring accessories catalogue – USB Type A and C
- WPSS82BKO-USBCC product datasheet
Updated 24 October 2026.