DIY or call a pro

Electricity is powerful. It can harm you and your home. In Victoria, only licensed electricians can do fixed wiring work. Here is a simple rule to help you decide what to do next.

The 10 minute rule
If a task takes more than 10 minutes, or needs a tool you do not use every week, call a pro. If you must touch wiring, stop and call a pro.

Safe DIY checks

• Change a light bulb

• Test and replace smoke alarm batteries

• Reset a tripped safety switch or circuit breaker

• Use tested powerboards and surge plugs

• Unplug and replug loose appliances

Jobs for a licensed electrician

• Install or move power points, switches, or lights

• Repair or replace wiring, downlights, or fans

• Switchboard upgrades, RCD and RCBO installs

• EV charger, oven, cooktop, heat pump wiring

• Outdoor power, garden lighting, pool equipment

Quick checks before you call

• Is the safety switch tripped

• Is only one room out, or the whole house

• Did a globe blow just before the power went

• Any burning smell or heat at a switch or outlet

Why this matters
Illegal work can void insurance and lead to fines. Safe work keeps your family and neighbours safe.

Book a local sparkie
Lucent Electrical works across St Helena, Greensborough, and Eltham. We can inspect, fix, and make it safe.