Not another one…

It couldn't be... Well things could be worse, but not much... When an electrical contractor does work at your premises, they are supposed to carry out certain checks under Section 8 of the Wiring Rules (AS/NZS 3000:2018). These include checking the current carrying capacity of the consumer mains and whether the new installation is compliant. … Continue reading Not another one…

Legal Requirements of Trades People

Notes for home owners considering trade work A downloadable and printable PDF version of this document is available. In this article I cover: Licensing Trades people and Contractors – what is the difference? Insurance Receipts Australian Standards Electrical Licensing Australian Standards Compliance Certificates Licensing Most trades people are required to have a contractors license that … Continue reading Legal Requirements of Trades People

Dangerous switchboard

I viewed a unit in Eastwood (in northern Sydney) today to provide advice on an electrical situation; during my inspection I found a switchboard that had recently had a fire. The switchboard had been badly repaired, and the repair work was non-compliant and dangerous. This exposed the tenant to serious safety hazards. I was significantly concerned by what I saw, so much so that I consulted the senior inspectors at Ausgrid for advice.

Cheaper or just more risky – part 2

I was challenged by a friend this morning, who didn't agree with the main point of my argument presented in: "cheaper is ok right" The reason he challenged me was that, in his mind the amount of money that someone is paid, doesn't determine whether the job is a good job, or a bad job. He … Continue reading Cheaper or just more risky – part 2