It can be tricky to know whether or not you need a new fuse board, and the truth is that only a trusted electrician can tell you if yours is in need of replacement. As a general rule, if your fuse box is dated to be 30 years old, it is time for an upgrade. There are a few tell tale signs that can indicate that your fuse box needs replaced: You have an old style fusebox with a wooden back board or cast iron switches – these are a safety issue and should be replaced as soon as possible. You don’t have any RCDs (residual current devices) for wiring buried in walls, sockets circuits and outlets that might be used to plug in outdoor electrical equipment You are undertaking home improvements such as a new electric shower, a home extension or a loft conversion. All additional wiring and new circuits will require additional breakers and installation.