Electrical work is one job you can’t do yourself. In Victoria, DIY electrical work is illegal as well as dangerous, so even a new power point needs a licensed electrician. Here’s how to choose an electrician in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, what to check before you book and the questions worth asking.
Hire a registered electrical contractor
In Victoria, an electrician has to work for a registered electrical contractor (REC) to do work for a customer. Energy Safe Victoria, the state’s electrical safety regulator, recommends you always engage an REC, who then sends a licensed electrician to do the job. Many electricians are sole traders who hold both a licence and their own REC registration.
Check the licence
Licensed electricians carry an identification card, and it’s fine to ask to see it. You can also look up an electrician or contractor on Energy Safe Victoria’s public register before you book. A licence is your guarantee they’re qualified, and it gives you somewhere to turn if something goes wrong.
Always get a Certificate of Electrical Safety
Whenever an electrician does electrical installation work, they must give you a Certificate of Electrical Safety (COES). It’s the legal record of the work and it’s worth keeping, especially if you sell the house later.
- Minor work such as lights, power points, air conditioning and hot water systems doesn’t need an inspection. You should get the certificate within 30 days.
- Major work such as a new switchboard, consumer mains, or solar and battery systems must be checked by an independent licensed electrical inspector before it’s switched on. Your contractor arranges the inspection.
A contractor can’t hold back your certificate over a payment or contract dispute. If you don’t receive one, you can contact Energy Safe Victoria.
Get more than one quote
For anything bigger than a small repair, ask two or three electricians to quote. Make sure each quote covers the same scope, including parts, labour, call-out fees and the certificate. The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value if it leaves things out.
Choose someone local
A local electrician can usually get to you sooner, may charge less in travel or call-out fees, and is easier to call back if something needs a second look. Northern suburbs electricians also know the area’s housing, from older weatherboards in Preston and Coburg to new builds in Craigieburn, Mernda and Wollert.
Questions worth asking before you book
- Are you licensed, and who is the registered electrical contractor for this job?
- Is the quote fixed, or is it an estimate?
- Will I get a Certificate of Electrical Safety, and when?
- Will the work need an inspection?
- Do you offer a warranty on your work?
- Can you check my smoke alarms while you’re here?
Find electricians near you
You can browse electricians across Melbourne’s northern suburbs and call them directly. Every listing is free, and no business pays to rank higher. If you’re planning a bigger project, you might also need solar and battery installers or air conditioning and heating specialists. And for water and gas, see our guide to choosing a plumber.
