Following our previous articles on electrical compliance checks in Melbourne and the importance of regular electrical safety inspections, this article dives deeper into common compliance failures, their risks, and how to fix them.
At LC Electrical Services, we don’t just conduct compliance checks—we help homeowners, landlords, and businesses identify potential hazards and provide expert solutions to ensure safety and legal compliance.
If you’re wondering what might cause your property to fail an electrical compliance check, this guide is for you.
Why Do Properties Fail Electrical Compliance Checks in Melbourne?
Many properties, especially older homes and commercial buildings, fail electrical compliance inspections due to outdated systems, unsafe wiring, or missing safety components. Below are the most common reasons:
⚠️ 1. Non-Compliant Switchboards & Safety Switches (RCDs)
Older properties often have outdated switchboards with ceramic fuses or lack residual current devices (RCDs)—a requirement under modern Victorian electrical safety laws.
💡 Solution: Upgrade your switchboard with modern circuit breakers and safety switches to comply with AS/NZS 3000:2018 (Wiring Rules).
⚠️ 2. Outdated or Faulty Wiring
Old electrical wiring, especially in homes built before the 1990s, may be damaged, frayed, or non-compliant with current safety standards. This increases the risk of electrical fires and shocks.
💡 Solution: A full rewiring of your property may be necessary if the existing wiring is unsafe or non-compliant. Our licensed electricians in Melbourne can assess and replace outdated wiring as needed.
⚠️ 3. Missing or Non-Compliant Smoke Alarms
Under Victorian building regulations, all properties must have working smoke alarms. Non-functional, missing, or incorrectly placed alarms can lead to compliance failure.
💡 Solution: Install photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway, and living area, and test them regularly.
⚠️ 4. Overloaded Circuits & Power Outlets
Many homes and businesses use power boards and extension leads to accommodate modern electrical demands, but overloading circuits can lead to power failures and fire hazards.
💡 Solution: Have an electrician assess your power distribution and install additional circuits or dedicated power outlets to prevent overloading.
⚠️ 5. Poor Earthing & Bonding Systems
A lack of proper earthing and bonding increases the risk of electric shocks and can prevent safety devices from functioning correctly.
💡 Solution: Ensure that your earthing system is tested and upgraded by a licensed electrician to prevent safety hazards.
⚠️ 6. Faulty or Non-Compliant Electrical Appliances
Outdated, damaged, or non-compliant appliances can fail an electrical safety check and pose fire risks.
💡 Solution: Regularly test and tag electrical appliances, especially in rental properties and commercial premises, to comply with Victorian safety regulations.
How to Ensure Your Property Passes an Electrical Compliance Check
If you’re preparing for an electrical compliance inspection, follow these steps to avoid compliance failures:
✅ 1. Schedule a Pre-Inspection Check
A pre-inspection by a licensed electrician can help identify and fix minor issues before your official compliance check.
✅ 2. Upgrade Non-Compliant Electrical Systems
Ensure your switchboard, wiring, smoke alarms, and safety switches meet Victorian electrical standards.
✅ 3. Keep Records of Previous Electrical Work
Maintain detailed records of past electrical safety checks and repairs to demonstrate compliance.
✅ 4. Test & Maintain Electrical Appliances
If you own a rental property or business, make sure appliances are regularly tested and tagged.
✅ 5. Work With Licensed & Experienced Electricians
Never attempt DIY electrical repairs. Always use a qualified electrician to handle electrical safety upgrades.
How LC Electrical Services Helps You Stay Compliant
At LC Electrical Services, we provide comprehensive electrical compliance testing in Melbourne and offer solutions for any compliance failures.
🔹 Full Electrical Inspections – We assess switchboards, wiring, safety switches, power outlets, and appliances.
🔹 Electrical Repairs & Upgrades – We fix non-compliant systems and provide modern electrical upgrades.
🔹 Smoke Alarm Installation & Testing – We ensure your property meets Victorian smoke alarm laws.
🔹 Switchboard & Safety Switch Upgrades – We install modern switchboards to prevent electrical hazards.
🔹 Compliance Certificate Issuance – We provide official documentation for your rental property, home, or business.
People Also Ask (PAA) – Common Questions About Electrical Compliance in Melbourne
What is checked in an electrical compliance inspection?
A licensed electrician will check your switchboard, safety switches, wiring, smoke alarms, earthing system, and power outlets to ensure they comply with Victorian electrical safety regulations.
What happens if my rental property fails an electrical compliance check?
If a rental property fails, the landlord must fix all non-compliant issues before it can be legally leased. Failing to meet Victorian rental electrical safety requirements can lead to fines and legal action (Source).
How often do rental properties need an electrical safety check?
Rental properties in Victoria must undergo an electrical safety check every two years under Victorian tenancy laws.
How much does it cost to fix an electrical compliance issue?
The cost depends on the severity of the issue. Minor fixes like replacing a smoke alarm may be inexpensive, while rewiring a home or upgrading a switchboard can be a larger investment. Contact us for a free quote.
Book Your Electrical Compliance Check with LC Electrical Services
If you suspect your property may not meet Victorian electrical safety standards, it’s time to schedule a compliance check.
LC Electrical Services also offers electrical services in Newport, Williamstown, Altona, Yarraville and Point Cook.
📞 Call us now at [1300 327 953]
📩 Email: info@lcelectricalservices.com.au
🖥️ Visit www.lcelectricalservices.com.au
🔹 LC Electrical Services – Melbourne’s Electrical Compliance Experts!
