Ensuring the safety of your home’s electrical system isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protecting your family and property from potential hazards.
Australia has strict electrical regulations are in place to minimize risks, but as a homeowner, understanding and following best practices can make all the difference.

At Direct Point Electrical, we specialise in making homes in Berwick and surrounding areas safe and efficient.

1. Always Use a Licensed Electrician

Australian law mandates that only licensed electricians can perform electrical work on your property. This ensures all work complies with the Electricity Safety Act 1998 and relevant Australian Standards, such as AS/NZS 3000:2018 (Wiring Rules).

Attempting DIY electrical work is not only illegal in Victoria but also extremely dangerous. If you need help with electrical installations, repairs, or maintenance, contact a licensed professional.
Learn more about our general electrical services here.

2. Regularly Test Safety Switches

Safety switches, also known as residual current devices (RCDs), are critical for preventing electric shock and fires. Victorian legislation requires safety switches to be installed on power and lighting circuits in all new homes and rental properties.

We recommend testing your safety switches every three months:

1. Press the “Test” button on the switch.
2. If it trips, reset it to ensure it’s functioning properly.
3. If it doesn’t trip or reset, contact an electrician immediately.

Need help with safety switch installation or testing? We can assist.

3. Avoid Overloading Power Points and Circuits

Overloaded circuits are a common cause of electrical fires. To stay compliant with electrical safety guidelines, consider these tips:

• Use power boards with built-in surge protection.
• Avoid plugging too many appliances into a single outlet.
• Upgrade your electrical system if you consistently experience tripped circuit breakers.

If your home’s circuits are struggling to keep up, check out our electrical upgrades.

4. Check Smoke Alarms Annually

Smoke alarms are a legal requirement in all Victorian homes under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997. They must be installed in all bedrooms and hallways leading to bedrooms.

To ensure compliance and safety:

• Test your smoke alarms monthly.
• Replace batteries every year.
• Replace the entire unit every ten years.

If you’re building or renovating, we can install interconnected smoke alarms as part of our new home electrical services.

5. Be Aware of Electrical Hazards Outdoors

Outdoor electrical safety is often overlooked. Faulty outdoor wiring or exposed cables can lead to serious accidents.

Follow these outdoor safety tips:

• Use weatherproof outlets for outdoor appliances.
• Regularly inspect outdoor lighting and wiring for damage.
• Maintain a safe distance from powerlines when working outdoors, as per Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) guidelines.

6. Schedule Regular Electrical Inspections

Routine electrical inspections can uncover hidden issues before they become major problems. Under Victorian regulations, homeowners are encouraged to have their electrical systems checked periodically, especially in older homes or after major renovations.

Our team at Direct Point Electrical provides thorough electrical inspections to ensure your home complies with all safety standards.

Stay Safe with Direct Point Electrical

Electrical safety is a shared responsibility between homeowners and licensed professionals. By adhering to Victorian legislation and following these tips, you can create a secure environment for your family.

If you need expert assistance with any aspect of your home’s electrical system, contact Direct Point Electrical today. We’re here to help Berwick homeowners stay safe and compliant!