Don’t Die for DIY Electrical Renovations

As the popular reality TV Series “Reno Rumble” and “House Rules” hit’s our TV screens again this month, we are all bound to get that itch for some home DIY electrical renovations ourselves. The ideas will be coming in at the speed of light to knock down walls. Expand the kitchen to include that amazing marble island bench including power points for the wine fridge underneath. Add some sparkling pendant lights above the dinner room table. Or mounting the TV in the middle of the lounge room wall with no exposed cables.

Before you grab the sledge hammer – think long and hard about what lies behind those walls. What maze of electrical wiring will you uncover? Will the cabling be frayed and has it been exposed to rodents over the years? If the work you are planning on doing is beyond changing a light bulb – call AJ Palmer Electrical, the best Electricians North Brisbane can offer.

Don't die for DIY Electrical Renovations

Don’t Die for DIY Electrical Renovations

You may think after watching a few You-Tube videos ‘how hard can it be’…but STOP and ask yourself – is it worth risking the life of a loved one, to save a few dollars on tradesman costs?

AJ Palmer Electrical will work with you to devise a safe and cost effective plan that will ensure all your renovation dreams come to light, without putting your family at risk.

idea lightbulb - DIY Electrical Renovations

Lightbulb moment!

Laws & Regulations around DIY Electrical Renovations

The following information is a general overview of just some of the laws and regulations you must be aware of before attempting any work on the electrical systems around your home.

Queensland has penalties of up to $100,000 or two years imprisonment if illegal work results in serious injury or death. The maximum penalty for multiple deaths is $200,000 or three years imprisonment.

Under Queensland’s Electrical Safety Act 2002, forbidden tasks include:

  • installing a new power point.
  • replacing a light switch.
  • replacing a batten holder with a new light fitting.
  • repairing an appliance such as a heater.
  • altering the location of an existing power point.
  • replacing a light fitting with a ceiling fan.
  • constructing an extension lead.
  • replacing a plug on the end of a lead.

On top of the penalties for injury or death, The Queensland government website also has the chilling warning that “DIY electrical work is regarded as unlicensed electrical work, which is illegal and has penalties of up to $40,000 for individuals.” Gulp!

So don’t be fooled by the array of electrical goodies available to you in your local Bunnings store. You don’t need to be licenced to buy them, but you most certainly need to be licensed to install most of them.  The law is black and white when it comes to working on electrical systems in your home.

Remember if you plan on doing any DIY electrical renovations – ensure AJ Palmer Electrical is your first point of call!

For more information please see the QLD Electrical Safety Act 

 

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