(03) 9900 1010
You’ve got a small electrical job that needs doing, and you’ve received a few quotes from local electrical businesses. But there’s one quote from a handyman website that’s coming in much cheaper…
It’s such a simple job. Surely anyone could do it, right?
Not quite.
It might be tempting to use an unlicensed electrician or handyman because they offer a lower price, but think about why that is. They can afford to undercut prices because they don’t have to pay for licensing fees. They won’t have insurance to protect you and your home. They aren’t covered for workers’ compensation insurance. And they probably won’t spend the time or effort to comply with safe work practices.
Even if you save a few dollars upfront, unlicensed electrical work can result in serious costs down the track. It can void your home insurance and may cost many times more if you need to fix dangerous or faulty work.
Besides, it’s actually against the law to perform electrical work without a license in all Australian states and territories.
The Dangers of Unlicensed Electrical Work
Electrical work is inherently dangerous. The electricity running through your home’s wiring is 240 volts—more than enough to cause serious injury, fires, or electrocution. That’s why Australian electrical safety laws require that all electrical work be carried out by a licensed electrician.
If you’re still considering using an unlicensed electrician, let’s go through the risks:
- Lack of Training & Knowledge – Unlicensed electricians haven’t undergone the same level of training, meaning they may not comply with AS/NZS 3000:2018 (Wiring Rules) and other Australian electrical safety standards.
- Unsafe Installations – Common issues include overloaded circuits, exposed connections, and improper grounding, which increase the risk of electrical fires.
- Hidden Hazards – Problems might not be immediately obvious. Incorrectly terminated cables in the roof may seem fine until disturbed by a possum, leading to a fire.
- Risk to Other Tradespeople – Plumbers, pest control workers, and insulation installers rely on properly terminated cables to ensure safety when working in your home.
- Potential Legal & Insurance Issues – Illegal wiring can void your home insurance and leave you financially responsible for any damages.
What About DIY Electrical Work?
You might think, “It’s just a simple job, I can swap over a power outlet myself.” But DIY electrical work carries the same risks as hiring an unlicensed electrician.
Licensed electricians use specialised testing equipment to verify that all work is safe and compliant. In contrast, DIY work often skips these essential safety steps.
Moreover, DIY electrical work can result in fines of up to $40,000 or even jail time in Australia. 240 volts is never something to play around with.
What Sets a Licensed Electrician Apart?
Every electrician in Victoria must hold a valid license issued by Energy Safe Victoria. A licensed electrician ensures:
- Compliance with AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules) and other Australian electrical safety standards.
- Certification of work through a Certificate of Electrical Safety from Energy Safe Victoria.
- Adequate insurance coverage, including WorkCover, protecting you from liability.
- Ongoing training and awareness of regulatory changes to maintain industry best practices.
How to Check if Your Electrician is Licensed
Energy Safe Victoria recommends always checking an electrician’s license before allowing them to start work. A licensed electrician should be happy to show their credentials upon request.
Trust O’Shea Electrical for Safe, Reliable Electrical Work
At O’Shea Electrical, we take safety and compliance seriously. Our team of fully licensed electricians ensures all work meets the highest Australian standards, so you can have peace of mind knowing your home and family are safe.
Call us today at (03) 9900 1010 to schedule an appointment with a licensed electrician you can trust!