Home Renovation

Renovations are a major undertaking and it’s important to plan every detail in advance. Consulting with professionals can save you time and money down the track by avoiding the need to reverse any work done in error.

One of the biggest issues homeowners face is incorrect placement of power points and light switches.

Master Electricians Australia has provided 10 tips to think about before your next project to avoid these simple mistakes.

1. Make an appointment with your builder or architect and your electrician to discuss want you want from your electrical system
2. Introduce energy efficiencies and reduce running costs by having an energy audit conducted, looking at different tariff options, and installation of automatic lighting controls
3. Get a written quote for the work that has been agreed to, including time frames and warranty of work and products installed
4. Ensure there is insurance cover before entering a contract
5. Confirm with the electrician where you want power points and light switches to be located
6. Discuss the type of finish you want with the look of power points and light switches. You do not have to choose white, white or white
7. Consider having surge protection installed, particularly if you live in an area with high summer storm activity
8. Think about upgrading older homes from outdated meter panels and ceramic fuses to modern non-toxic meter panels and safety switches
9. Make sure everything is written down and all parties have a copy for later referral
10. Ask the professional for advice, they’re trained to know best outcomes and have lots of experience. But keep in mind that it is your renovation, so subject to regulations and safety you have the final say on where items are placed.

You can find a licensed contractor in your local newspaper, or you can find your local Master Electrician and log a job.

Whether your home improvement project has been something you’ve dreamed of doing for years or a more ‘spur of the moment’ decision, your renovation will go a lot more smoothly if you take the time to plan it properly.

Bathrooms and kitchens are the most expensive rooms to renovate so it pays to get it right the first time.

Aside from your builder, an electrician will also be employed for home renovation work. Accredited Master Electricians deliver the highest levels of quality, electrical safety, integrity, and energy advice. Each Accredited Master Electrician’s business is certified according to stringent standards, and members must adhere to a strict code to retain their Accredited Master Electricians status.

You can count on an Accredited Master Electrician to be reliable, safe, honest, and informed, and to perform work that exceeds your expectations.

Below is a list of steps that you, as a home renovator, should follow to ensure that your renovations are safe and meet all the legal requirements.

1. Any electrical renovations done must meet current Australian Standards. All electrical work must meet or exceed Australian Standard 3000:2007 (Wiring Rules) which came into effect in June of 2008.
2. There are a number of legal requirements that must be followed when designing rooms such as bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor areas with pools and spas. These rooms have a number of zones that, due to electricity and water not mixing, limit the types of devices that may be installed. It is better to be proactive and have an electrician help with your design to ensure it complies with legislation.
3. There is a large range of energy efficient items that can be incorporated into your home that will help you to conserve energy and save you money. Look for low voltage fittings, compact fluorescent lamps and water saving devices.
4. All electrical contractors need to be licensed and carry a minimum of $5 million Public Liability.
5. To check if your contractor is licensed, select your state below and follow the prompts:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia

The Home Insulation Program (HIP) was announced as part of the $42 billion Nation Building – Economic Stimulus Plan on 3 February 2009. Under the HIP, around 1.2 million households were insulated at a cost of around $1.45 billion.

The program was closed on 19 February 2010 due to escalating safety and compliance concerns, including three tragic electrocutions and a number of fire incidents in households with insulation installed under the HIP.

If you have insulation installed:

1. If you have concerns about the insulation do not enter the ceiling unless you have a Master Electrician inspect it
2. Safety switches only provide protection on certain circuits. Mains cables, stove, lighting, and hot water circuits are usually not protected
3. It is recommended that you get a Master Electrician to inspect and ensure you and your family are safe
4. If you have any concerns, book an Insulation Safety Test with a Master Electrician.