Electricity keeps everything running, but most people don’t think about what’s behind the walls until there’s a problem. We plug in, switch on, and expect everything to work. That’s fine—until it’s not.
Electrical systems don’t last forever. Wires age, connections weaken, and the risk of faults increases with time. Regular inspections can stop issues before they become dangerous. But how often should you arrange for a check?
It depends on where you live, the type of property, and how the system is used. Let’s walk through the different situations.
In Your Own Home
For most homeowners, a full electrical inspection every five years is a sensible standard. This is not just about staying safe. It’s about protecting your investment.
“Inspections identify potential electrical hazards like faulty wiring or overloaded circuits before they lead to fires or shocks,” says Electrician Near Me.
Older homes, especially those built before the 1990s, often have wiring that doesn’t meet modern safety standards. If you’ve never had the system checked—or it’s been longer than five years—now is the time.
Homes that have undergone renovations, had solar panels installed, or added large appliances like air conditioners or hot tubs should also be reassessed. Each change can add pressure to your system. Without a proper check, you may not realise you’ve exceeded its capacity.
Newer homes may not need full checks quite as often, but they’re not immune to problems. Electrical fittings can still come loose, water damage can occur without notice, and pests sometimes chew through cables in wall cavities.
Rental Properties
If you’re a landlord, inspections are more than a good idea—they’re required. In many areas, including under Australian tenancy law, electrical safety checks must be carried out every two years.
This isn’t just about ticking a legal box. It protects your tenants, helps you avoid disputes, and ensures peace of mind. If a tenant reports power issues, flickering lights, or tripping breakers, don’t delay. Call an electrician immediately. A short visit can prevent a much larger issue.
Holiday rentals and serviced apartments may need even more frequent checks, especially if you’re using older appliances or have guests plugging in a wide variety of devices.
Offices and Workplaces
Offices are generally considered low-risk, especially those with a typical layout—desks, computers, lights, and air conditioning. If the building is modern and equipped with safety switches, you can usually go three to five years between full inspections.
But this assumes that portable equipment is tested separately and that you’re not ignoring warning signs. If lights flicker or equipment keeps tripping the breakers, get it looked at straight away.
Offices with staff kitchens or server rooms should be assessed more often. These spaces use more power and often contain ageing appliances or devices with high energy loads.
Keep in mind that it’s not just about fixed wiring. Any portable appliance—from toasters to fans—should be tested at least once a year, sometimes more frequently depending on use.
Workshops and Trades
In environments where tools are in daily use, inspections need to be far more regular. Equipment should be visually checked before each use. Leads and power boards should be tested every three to six months.
Any setting where power tools, water, or dust are involved poses a higher risk. That includes mechanics, welders, timber yards, and similar workspaces.
In these places, a six-month testing cycle for the entire system is common. It may feel like a hassle, but the alternative—faulty gear, injured staff, or a workplace fire—is far worse.
Construction Sites
Sites where work is underway, especially with temporary wiring and exposed equipment, must follow strict safety routines. These aren’t suggestions—they’re required by law.
Tools and extension leads need to be tagged and tested every three months. Safety switches should be tested before every use. Wiring used during construction must also be inspected frequently, and any sign of damage should trigger immediate removal and replacement.
There is no room for shortcuts here. Lives depend on it. Safe Work Australia data shows that over the past ten years, 44 electricians have died from traumatic injuries at work. Over half of these deaths – 23 in total – were the result of electrocution.
These aren’t just numbers. They are a clear reminder of what’s at stake when electrical safety is not taken seriously.
Safety Switches and Switchboards
These two parts of your system do most of the heavy lifting.
The switchboard is the control centre. If it’s not working properly, nothing else can be trusted. Have it inspected at least once every three years. If it’s showing signs of damage—like rust, heat marks, or buzzing noises—book an electrician immediately.
Safety switches, or RCDs, are your first line of defence against electric shock. You can test them yourself by pressing the ‘test’ button monthly. But that’s not enough. Every year or two, a licensed electrician should carry out a proper test to make sure they respond at the correct speed and current level.
Know the Warning Signs
Even with a good inspection routine, some problems can show up in between. Pay attention to these red flags:
- A burning smell coming from outlets or switches
- Power points that feel warm to the touch
- Lights that flicker or dim without cause
- Circuit breakers that trip regularly
- Any buzzing sound from inside walls.
Don’t wait to “see if it happens again.” Electrical faults often escalate without warning. Act quickly.
Keep a Simple Log
A notebook, spreadsheet, or even a printed calendar works fine. Record the date of each inspection, what was done, and by whom. If anything was fixed or replaced, note that too.
If you ever sell the property, make an insurance claim, or undergo a safety audit, that record becomes extremely valuable.
Final Thoughts
Electricity is something we trust, but it is not something we should take for granted. Just because the lights come on doesn’t mean everything is fine behind the scenes.
A regular inspection is not a luxury. It is a basic part of maintaining a safe home or workplace. You wouldn’t drive your car for ten years without a service. Your electrical system deserves the same attention.
If you’re unsure when your last check was, assume it’s overdue. Call a licensed electrician, ask for an inspection, and start a proper schedule. It’s one of the easiest ways to protect your home, your family, and your future.
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