Don’t DIY your renos

I’ve written about this before (Here's why a licensed electrical contractor saves you MORE than money). Renovation shows are extremely popular and can make DIY transformations seem attainable - even for those with little or no experience in home renovation.

But you need to remember these TV shows are for entertainment. Although we sometimes do see tradies working away in the background, these shows don’t generally focus on the legal side of what you can and can’t DIY when it comes to electricity.

It’s easy enough to go out and buy all types of electrical fixtures and fittings, but it’s actually prohibited by law (with penalties up to $100,000 depending on which State/Territory you reside in) to install them yourself.

All electrical installation or renovation work must be done by a licenced electrician who is required to test their work and give you a certificate of compliance.

Regulations across Australian states and territories vary slightly, but they pretty much all prevent you from doing much more than changing a lightbulb.

There is a good reason for these regulations – SAFETY! We’re so comfortable with electricity in our homes that we forget just how dangerous it can be:

• Safety for the current occupant of the building;
• Safety for the future occupant of the building; and
• Safety for current and future installers.

Using a licenced electrician is the first step, the second is to check that they are using reputable products from reputable suppliers. Unfortunately, there are non-compliant products in the market place which are simply dangerous. A licenced electrician will know to purchase reputable products from reputable suppliers and to ensure that the job is complaint and the occupants are safe.

No matter how small a job you think it is, if it involves electricity call a licenced electrician. All NECA members are properly qualified and licenced. Don’t take a risk, electricity can, and does, kill.

For more information on electrical safety and licensing requirements in your state, click the following links:

• ACT
• QLD
• NSW
• NT
• VIC
• SA
• TAS
• WA

For further information, have a look at my previous posts:

• It makes good business sense to avoid dodgy electrical products
• WH&S in the Electrical Contracting Sector
• Non-conforming building products - it's time to act
• Infinity Cable Recall - Act now before it's too late

Visit the NECA website for help finding a NECA member business or to find further information.

(The above banner is from a Qld Government campaign)