Why You Shouldn’t DIY Electrical Work at Home – Always Use a Licensed Electrician

In today’s age of YouTube tutorials and DIY home improvement shows, it’s tempting to try fixing things around the house yourself. While painting a wall or fixing a leaky tap might be within reach, DIY electrical work is a serious safety hazard and in Australia, it’s also illegal if you're unlicensed.

Here’s why hiring a licensed electrician isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

1. Electrical Work Without a Licence is Illegal in Australia

Under Australian law, performing electrical work without the appropriate licence is strictly prohibited. In New South Wales, for instance, this includes tasks like:

• Replacing powerpoints or light switches

• Installing lighting fixtures

• Running new wiring

• Modifying switchboards

The NSW Fair Trading body enforces these regulations, and hefty fines can apply to those who breach them—even for seemingly simple tasks.

Only a licensed electrician can legally carry out electrical work, ensuring compliance with the AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and state laws.

2. DIY Electrical Work Can Be Deadly

Electricity is unforgiving. One wrong connection or missed step can result in:

• Electric shock or electrocution

• House fires

• Property damage

• Injury to others

Even low-voltage circuits can kill. Licensed electricians are trained to work safely and to spot hidden hazards that an untrained eye would miss.

3. Your Insurance May Be Void

If an electrical fire or fault occurs due to unlicensed work, your home and contents insurance may not cover the damage. Most insurers require all electrical work to be carried out by a licensed professional.

This could mean you're not only liable for repairs but also for medical bills, legal fees, or worse—criminal charges in the event someone is injured.

4. Only Licensed Electricians Understand Australian Standards

Licensed electricians must follow the AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules), which governs all electrical installations in Australia and New Zealand. These standards are regularly updated to reflect:

• Modern safety practices

• Energy efficiency

• Equipment compatibility

• Legal responsibilities

DIYers are unlikely to be aware of these evolving standards, putting their safety and the integrity of their installation at risk.

5. The Cost of Mistakes Far Exceeds the Cost of Hiring a Pro

Trying to save a few hundred dollars on a DIY job can cost you thousands—or worse.

Licensed electricians like those at Gemelec bring:

• 15+ years of experience

• Proper tools and materials

• Insurance and warranties

• Full compliance with Australian laws

You’re not just paying for someone to “do the job”—you’re investing in peace of mind.

What Can You Do Yourself?

There are some legal and safe ways to get involved with your home’s electrical system, such as:

• Changing lightbulbs

• Using plug-in appliances safely

• Installing battery-operated smoke alarms

For anything beyond that—call a licensed professional.

Need Help? Call GemElec – Licensed, Trusted and Local

At Gemelec Electrical Services, we offer same-day service across Greater Sydney and are available 24/7 for emergencies. All of our electricians are fully licensed and insured, and we always work in compliance with the latest standards and safety protocols.

Don’t risk your safety, your home, or your future. Call the experts—call Gemelec.