Why DIY Electrical Work in Your Sydney Home Could Be a Shocking Mistake

In recent years, Australian homeowners, particularly Sydney homeowners, have embraced the DIY lifestyle like never before. This can be attributed mostly to the rising labour costs stemming from the shortage of skilled workers due to low overseas migration.

From building backyard decks in the Inner West to installing sleek new kitchen fixtures in the North Shore, there’s a growing trend of being hands-on with home improvement projects.

If there ever arises a need to point fingers anywhere for why it has become so easy to feel like anything is possible with a few YouTube videos and a trip to Bunnings, we know to point them at the explosion of online tutorials and home renovation influencers. Although DIY can be fun & fulfilling, it can be dangerous – especially when it comes to electrical work.

Some things are meant to be done by specialists only. DIY electrical work could cost you, your home, your safety and in severe instances, your life. This is not a risk that is worth taking.

In this post, we’ll discuss why fixing electrical wires & appliances on your own is a bad idea and how bringing in a licensed Level 2 electrician can make your life easier.

The Rise of DIY in Sydney Homes

There is no denying that Sydneysiders are a DIY-friendly bunch. Whether it’s saving money, the satisfaction of a task well done or the influence of renovation shows like The Block, the urge to tackle projects solo is as high as it has ever been.

While painting a wall or assembling a flat-pack wardrobe is one thing, rewiring an electric point or replacing a light fixture is an entirely different ball game. Electrical work is riddled with hidden dangers and any misplaced action can result in catastrophic failures.

The Real Dangers of DIY Electrical Work

According to NSW Government statistics, between 40% of New South Wales house fires every year result from electrical failures and appliances. That is hundreds of households facing an avoidable tragedy, just because they thought they could do it for themselves. This is more than a number, these are real-life occurrences.

Even seemingly simple tasks like replacing a powerpoint or installing a ceiling fan can go horribly wrong if done without proper training. Here’s why:

Electrocution Risks 

Electricity is unforgiving. One mistake; crossed wires or exposed conductors and you could be the recipient of a severe electric shock. In the worst-case scenario, DIY electrical work could lead to long-term injuries or fatalities.

Fire Hazards

Defective wiring, loose cables or overloaded circuits can cause house fires. You might not even notice it at first, but smouldering cables behind a wall can turn into a blazing fire when you least expect it.

Hidden Costs

Most homeowners try DIY in order to save money. But if it fails, repair costs can be astronomical. Insurance companies will even deny claims when the electrical work was not done by a licensed electrician.

Common (But Dangerous) DIY Electrical Projects

Some electrical jobs that Sydney homeowners often attempt that they do not realise could be dangerous or illegal include:

• Installing light switches or power points
• Rewiring as part of renovation
• Fitting ceiling lights or fans
• Outdoor lighting and garden power points

Unless you are a licensed electrician in Sydney, carrying out these jobs not only puts you at risk of injury but is also against NSW law.

What Does the NSW Law Say?

Under New South Wales law, DIY electrical work on fixed wiring is against the law. Only licensed electricians are entitled to carry out such activities as wiring appliances or switchboard upgrades. The rules are designed to protect homeowners as well as the general public.

If a DIY project results in a fire or injury, the homeowner can be held legally responsible. It may also invalidate your home insurance policy which is something that many people do not know about until it’s too late.

Why Use a Level 2 Electrician?

As wonderful as it is to handle DIY projects around the house, electrical work is an area that should be left to the professionals. The risks are too great and the consequences too severe. It simply is not worth it.

Unlike standard electricians, Level 2 electricians are authorised to work on service lines between your property and the electrical network. They can handle complex tasks like installing overhead and underground power and managing emergency disconnections among many other complex specialist tasks.

Must Read: What to Look for When Selecting a Level 2 Electrician in Sydney

Whether you are renovating your Parramatta residence or adding new lights in your Sutherland Shire garden, keep in mind that, just because you can watch it on YouTube does not mean you should attempt it yourself. Always place safety, legality and peace of mind first by leaving electrical work in capable hands of accredited & certified Level 2 Accredited Service Providers (ASP).

Long-Term Safety and Peace of Mind

Trained electricians in Western Sydney and beyond stick to the strict Australian Standards and safety protocols, so your electrical systems at home are compliant. Proper documentation, warranties and testing procedures also mean you are covered in the long run.

If you consider the potential costs both financial and physical, it’s easy to see that electrical services are one aspect of home renovations where cutting corners literally isn’t worth it.

When you hire a licensed Level 2 electrician, you are ensuring the job is done to strict Australian Standards, keeping your home and family safe.

Don’t Risk It – Trust AJB Group for All Electrical Jobs in Sydney

Do you need reliable, licensed electricians in Sydney? AJB Electrical Group is a solid choice if you are after professionals who know their stuff and do the job right the first time.

Our team of local emergency electricians and Level 2 ASPs handle everything from everyday electrical emergencies to more complex Level 2 work, all while keeping things safe and stress-free for homeowners.

We are known for our punctuality, ease of communication and openness in doing things and you don’t have to worry about any hidden surprises, just quality work as it should be. So, if you are looking to hire competent and licensed electricians in Sydney, contact us today!