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There are hefty financial penalties which vary from state to state for anyone attempting to do illegal electricity work. Electricians undergo extensive training and must be fully licensed to do the work they do. Don’t think for one minute that your skills are on a par with these tradies.
The short answer
Yes. In Australia, changing a socket is electrical work that must be done by a licensed electrician. Doing it yourself risks shock, fire, fines that vary by state, and a home insurance claim being refused if something goes wrong.
- Homeowners can change light bulbs, fit (but not connect) an oven and install battery-operated smoke alarms.
- Sockets, light switches, ceiling fans, plugs on leads and extension leads all need a licensed electrician.
It’s the law
Installing a power socket or adding extra power points is relatively easy, but all wiring needs to be professionally done. Australia has a strict set of laws governing electrical equipment work. This includes connecting electricity, inspecting and installation.
In Western Australia, electrical licensing laws administered by Building and Energy require that electrical work such as installing, testing, repairing, and replacing electrical equipment must be carried out by a licensed electrician.
If you attempt your own electrical work, there’s the risk of an electrical shock or a fire which could result in injury or death. DIY electrical work will impact your home insurance and if you damage your property while undertaking illegal electrical work, any claim against your policy will be null and void. If you’re wondering what you can and can’t do, here’s the guidance.
What you can do
- Changing blown light bulbs
- Replacing LED downlights
- Replacing a drive belt in a washing machine
- Fitting but not connecting an oven
- Installing garden lighting and pond pumps
- Installing battery operated smoke detectors
What you can’t do
- Change a socket
- Repair a faulty electrical appliance
- Replace a light switch or fitting
- Install a ceiling fan
- Replace a plug on a lead
- Construct an extension lead
- Replace a batten holder with a new light fitting
Buying is not installing
Hardware stores will happily sell you electrical fittings, but buying them doesn't mean you're allowed to install them. Have a licensed electrician connect anything you pick up.
Why electricians are licensed
It can be satisfying completing tasks around the home and knowing that it was your own handiwork, but when it comes to electricity there’s very little you can do. While your eyes may light up seeing the shelves full of electrical goods at your local Bunnings, while you can buy it, you won’t be able to install it. There’s a very strict limit on what you’re able to do.
A qualified electrician is fully trained and has a duty to perform electrical tasks that meet legal requirements. They will also hold public liability insurance to provide protection in case anyone sustains an injury, or the property gets damaged.
For all your electrical needs contact PWA Electrical Services. Our priority is safety and all our electricians are fully insured and licensed electricians. We cover Perth and the surrounding suburbs and offer free no obligation quotes. Give us a call and check out our Google reviews, you’re sure to be impressed. We are fast becoming the electrician of choice in WA, so why not give us a call today?
Talk to PWA Electrical
Need a licensed electrician in Perth?
Talk to the PWA team about residential, commercial or after-hours work. Call us or send an enquiry for a free quote.
About the author
Brad Wilson
Senior Electrician, PWA Electrical Services
Brad is a seasoned professional who specialises in complex switchboards, control circuitry, and electrical service and maintenance. Reliable and experienced, no job is too big or small for him.
