Switchboard Upgrades and Replacements

An outdated switchboard isn’t just inefficient, it can pose serious safety risks and restrict your property’s electrical performance. We specialise in professional switchboard upgrades that keep your property safe, compliant and fully equipped to handle today’s energy demands.

Whether it’s minor wiring repairs, safety switch upgrades, a generator changeover supply or a complete switchboard replacement, we’ve got the experience required to handle all of your switchboard needs across all property types.

 

the process

Our expert team will complete a comprehensive inspection to assess the condition of your existing switchboard, evaluate existing circuit protection and identify any potential hazards.

You’ll then receive a clear, obligation-free quote outlining all recommended upgrades required to meet current compliance standards.

Should you proceed with our quote you can be assured that the installation will be completed efficiently with all circuits appropriately protected and clearly labelled for future reference.

benefits of individual safety switches

  • Targeted Protection:

Faults and circuit maintenance are isolated to the individual circuit only, preventing widespread power loss and providing minimal disruption.

  • Enhanced Safety:

Power is rapidly removed from the faulty circuit, reducing the risk of life-threatening electric shock.

  • Efficient Repairs:

Identifying and repairing faults can be completed faster, leading to reduced downtime and lower overall repair costs.

Common QUESTIONS

What does a safety switch do and why should I have them installed?

A safety switch, also known as a residual current device (RCD) is designed to protect you and your home by constantly monitoring the flow of electricity through a circuit. If it detects any irregularities, such as a fault or leakage, it immediately cuts off the power to prevent serious harm.

This rapid response helps to reduce the risk of electrical fires, shocks and serious injuries often caused by faulty wiring or overloaded circuits. These protection devices can also be tested by the home-owner via the fascia “TEST” push-button to ensure they are functioning correctly.

I currently have circuit breakers and/or fuses within my switchboard, do they do the same thing as safety switches?

Circuit breakers and plug-in fuses are designed to protect your property’s electrical installation by automatically isolating power when they detect a high current fault or overload, conditions that could otherwise damage circuit wiring or appliances and pose a fire risk.

Safety switches, on the other hand, are designed to protect both people and your property’s electrical installation. Not only do they detect faults and overload but also electricity leakage and immediately isolate to prevent life-threatening electric shocks.

In short:

  • Circuit Breakers protect your property’s wiring and appliances.

  • Safety Switches protect people, your property’s wiring and appliances.

What are my legal obligations regarding safety switches as a residential property owner in Queensland?

The following situations for domestic homes are required by law in Queensland:

  • Homes Built or Improved Upon Since 2019

In 2019, the Wiring Rules (AS/NZS 3000:2018) were updated making safety switches mandatory on *ALL final sub-circuits in new or altered electrical installations including dedicated circuits for appliances such as cooktops, ovens, air-conditioners, pool equipment and hot water systems.

  • Homes Built Between 2000 to 2018

From 2000 to 2018, *ALL new or altered power point AND lighting circuits required the installation of safety switch protection.

  • Homes Built Between 1992 to 1999

From 1992 to 1999, *ALL new or altered power point circuits required the installation of safety switch protection.

* With the exception of existing sub-circuits when electrical equipment is replaced in a like-for-like manor. It is highly recommended to have a safety switch installed in collaboration with these repair works however.

  • Buying a Property

If you purchase a home that doesn’t already have safety switch protection installed on all power points, you are legally required under Section 84 of the QLD Electrical Safety Regulation to have them installed within 90 days of the property transfer. This rule applies to all transfers of domestic properties.

  • Selling a Property

If you’re selling a home, you must check whether a safety switch is installed on all power points. This must be disclosed in the standard sales contract and on Form 24 (Property Transfer).

  • Renting a Property

Landlords are legally required under Section 85 of the QLD Electrical Safety Regulation to ensure that safety switch protection is installed on all power points. If not already in place, safety switches must be installed on the associated sub-circuits within 90 days of a new tenancy agreement.

HELPFUL INFORMATION