Telephony - Other

Unleash Your Home Phone Setup: Best UK Stores for Telephone Outlets, Faceplates & Communicators

Introduction: Why the right telephony parts matter

If you’ve ever struggled with a creaky old telephone socket, mismatched faceplates, or an alarm communicator that won’t play nicely with your system, you’re not alone. Small pieces like master telephone outlets, slave sockets, and communication modules make a big difference in call quality, reliability, and the overall look of your rooms. In this guide I’ll walk you through the top UK retailers for telephony “other” items — from Hamilton faceplates to Texecom communicators — and explain what to buy, where to buy it, and how to make sure everything fits together like a glove.

What this article covers

I’ll cover reputable suppliers that specialise in telephone sockets and communicating modules, outline the key product types (master vs. slave outlets, RJ11/RJ12 sockets, comms modules), give tips on finishes and installation, and point you to budget-friendly options and premium choices. Expect practical, real-world advice you can act on today.

Top UK stores that stock telephony supplies

When shopping for telephony parts in the UK, some retailers stand out for stock depth, product range, and specialist items. Below are stores you’ll want to consider — I focus on those who sell phone outlets, faceplates, and communication modules similar to the Hamilton G2 and Texecom parts you might be hunting for.

Hamilton (wiring accessories and faceplates)

Hamilton is a long-standing name in wiring accessories and decorative faceplates. Their G2 range includes master telephone inserts and matching slave outlets in finishes like stainless steel, black, satin steel, and polished brass. If you’re matching sockets to modern décor or replacing a single plate, Hamilton’s variety of colours and materials makes achieving a seamless look easy.

Expert Electrical (specialist electrical and security modules)

Expert Electrical is known for stocking both decorative outlets and professional security components. They carry popular Click Deco telephone inserts and security-oriented items like Texecom Premier Elite communicators and speech modules — perfect if you need both a clean wall plate and a reliable alarm communication backhaul.

Screwfix (trades-focused, good stock levels)

Screwfix is a go-to for tradespeople and DIYers who need telephone sockets, back boxes, and quick-fit accessories. They offer practical options at competitive prices and often stock faceplates that fit standard UK wall boxes, so you can replace a damaged socket in minutes.

Toolstation (value and convenience)

Toolstation competes closely with Screwfix on price and availability. If you need basic RJ11 sockets, master/slave kits, or back boxes with minimal fuss, they’re a reliable option with many local stores for same-day pickup.

RS Components and Farnell (industrial and specialist parts)

For less common telecom components or professional-grade connectors, RS Components and Farnell are excellent. They’re especially useful when you need specific communicator modules, higher-spec connectors, or components that aren’t sold in high-street outlets.

B&Q and Wickes (home improvement chains)

If you’re combining decorating with rewiring or replacing multiple outlets, hardware chains like B&Q and Wickes offer decorative faceplates and basic telephone sockets. Their ranges are often aimed at homeowners who want good looks plus functional performance.

Amazon UK and major online marketplaces

Amazon consolidates small sellers and brand stores alike, so you can find Hamilton-style inserts, Click Deco faceplates, and even Texecom accessories. The trick is to check seller ratings and product photos so you don’t end up with the wrong finish or a cheap copy of a branded item.

Currys and electronics retailers

Big electronics stores such as Currys are more focused on phones, VOIP adapters, and cordless systems than on decorative faceplates, but they’re worth checking if you’re buying a new cordless base or a small VoIP box to pair with older sockets.

Understanding the product types: master, slave, inserts & modules

Knowing the difference between master and slave sockets — and where communicator modules fit in — saves time and money. Here’s a plain-English breakdown so you can shop with confidence.

Master vs. slave telephone outlets

A master outlet is the primary connection point where the incoming line terminates and often includes surge protection or linking functionality. Slave outlets are secondary connections wired from the master. If you want multiple phones in the house, aim to replace or upgrade the master outlet first so the whole system benefits.

Decorative inserts and faceplates

Faceplates and inserts — like the Click Deco or Hamilton G2 ranges — let you match socket finishes to your décor. Inserts sit inside the faceplate; plates come in finishes such as stainless steel, black, brass, or satin. When shopping, ensure the faceplate matches the wiring module underneath for a snug fit.

Comms modules: Texecom and similar parts

Comms modules such as Texecom Premier Elite communicators handle alarm signalling or digital communications. These are specialist items you’ll find at expert electrical retailers and security suppliers. If you’re installing an alarm panel or a backup GSM communicator, buy from retailers who list compatibility and provide technical details.

Choosing the right socket and finish for your space

It’s not just function — the look matters too. The right finish can make old wiring disappear into the background or become a deliberate design detail. Let’s walk through common choices and how to pick one.

Match finishes to existing hardware

Think about door handles, light switches, and kitchen fittings. If they’re brushed stainless, a stainless steel faceplate will blend; if you prefer contrast, black or polished brass can create a statement. Hamilton’s G2 range and Click Deco options often offer matching sets so switches and telephone outlets share the same finish.

Single gang, double gang and plate configurations

Most phone outlets come in single-gang faceplates, but if you need a socket plus a data port or a spur for another device, double-gang plates are common. Measure the spacing in inches to ensure compatibility with your wall box and neighbouring fittings.

Durability and material choices

Plastic is cheap and functional, but metal plates resist wear and look premium. If your outlet is in a busy hallway, choose a hard-wearing finish that hides fingerprints and scratches.

Installation basics: tools, tips and what to buy from the store

You don’t need to be a pro to fit most telephone sockets, but the right tools and parts make everything smoother. Here’s a simple checklist of what to pick up from your chosen retailer.

Essential tools and consumables

A small flat screwdriver, cable stripper, a tester, and insulating tape are often enough for a standard swap. For alarm communicators you may need a screwdriver set and possibly a small amount of electrician’s pouch screws. Specialist shops like Expert Electrical or Screwfix sell pre-configured kits to keep things painless.

Back boxes and depth considerations

Most UK wall boxes are standard depths, but older properties sometimes have shallow boxes that won’t accept thicker communicators. If in doubt, measure the depth in inches and check product specs before buying. Retailers usually list compatibility for standard and shallow boxes.

Label and map your sockets

Before you disconnect anything, mark master and slave sockets with a bit of tape. It sounds simple, but it saves headaches later when everything looks similar and you’re trying to figure out which cable goes where.

Security communicators and alarm modules: what to look for

If you’re upgrading an alarm system or adding a backup signalling path, the communicator module is the component to focus on. Retailers like Expert Electrical typically stock Texecom Premier Elite items used by installers and security-conscious homeowners.

GSM, IP and hybrid communicators

Modern alarm communicators send alarms via the internet (IP), mobile networks (GSM), or both. A hybrid communicator gives redundancy — if the internet fails, a GSM fallback keeps signals moving. Check compatibility with your alarm panel and buy from a retailer that lists supported panels.

Speech modules and diallers

Want voice messages or automated calls during an alarm event? Speech modules add that layer. Expert Electrical and specialist security suppliers often list pre-configured options for common alarm systems so you don’t need to assemble parts from scratch.

Price expectations and budget-buying tips

Telephony parts range from very cheap decorative faceplates to higher-cost professional communicators. Here’s how to get the best value without compromising on quality.

Where to splurge and where to save

Spend on the master outlet and any communicator module — these affect function most. Save on extra slave sockets or optional faceplate colours if you’re on a tight budget. Hamilton-style faceplates give good value for a polished look without heavy expense.

Comparison shopping and season deals

Check specialist stores and marketplaces. Expert Electrical often has security-focused inventory while Screwfix and Toolstation run frequent promotions on wiring accessories. If you want both a high-quality faceplate and a communicator, buy each from the store that specialises in that category.

Common mistakes to avoid

Small errors can mean wasted time and money. Here are the pitfalls I see most often and how to avoid them.

Mismatching inserts and plates

Don’t buy a decorative plate without checking that the insert type matches the module underneath. Manufacturers often have proprietary fitments and a cheap plate won’t always seat correctly on a branded insert.

Ignoring compatibility details

Alarms and communicators require specific wiring and connectors. If you pick a Texecom module, verify that your panel firmware version and wiring harness are compatible before purchasing. Specialist retailers will list these details; general stores may not.

Buying the wrong depth back box

Fit issues usually come down to the depth of the back box. Measure in inches and check the product specs, especially for thicker communicators or multi-gang plates.

Where to go for advice and installation help

If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask a specialist retailer for advice. Trade-focused stores and security suppliers can offer technical notes and wiring diagrams, while generalist stores can help with decorative choices and quick swaps.

Ask for compatibility listings

When dealing with alarm communicators, ask for a list of compatible panels and any firmware constraints. This simple step can prevent a return trip and keep your system working reliably.

Consider professional installation for complex setups

If you’re adding hybrid communicators or reworking wiring for multiple sockets, it may be worth hiring a certified electrician or alarm installer. The upfront cost often pays off through fewer issues and a cleaner final result.

Final buying checklist

Before you click “buy,” run through this handy checklist: Is the faceplate finish matched? Does the insert type fit your back box? Is the communicator compatible with your alarm panel? Have you measured depth in inches? Buying the right items in one go saves time and avoids mismatches.

Quick reference for your trip to the store

Bring a photo of your existing socket, measure the back box depth and overall plate size in inches, and jot down model numbers of alarm panels or master modules. With that in hand, Hamilton-style inserts and Texecom modules are easy to match at Expert Electrical, Screwfix, or other specialist retailers.

Conclusion: With the right parts and a little homework, upgrading or repairing telephone outlets and communicators is straightforward. Focus on the master outlet first, choose reliable retailers for specialist modules, and pick a finish that ties your room together. Whether you pick Hamilton faceplates for a premium look or grab a Texecom communicator from a specialist supplier, the market in the UK is well stocked — you just need to know what to look for.