Queensland law is clear about what is and isn't DIY when it comes to electrical work. Here's a plain-English summary for homeowners.
There's a lot of confusion about what's legal to do yourself when it comes to home electrical work in Queensland. The short version: almost nothing. The slightly longer version is below.
What you can do yourself
- Replace a light bulb
- Plug and unplug appliances
- Replace a fuse cartridge of the same rating (in older fuse boards)
That's basically the list. Anything that involves the fixed wiring, the switchboard, or any work behind a wall plate requires a licensed electrician.
What requires a licensed electrician
- Replacing or installing power points and light switches
- Installing new circuits or extending existing ones
- Switchboard work of any kind
- Installing ceiling fans, downlights and exhaust fans
- Hardwired air conditioning, hot water and oven installation
- Smoke alarm hardwiring and replacement
- Any work in the roof space involving cabling
Why it matters
Beyond the legal side, properly licensed work means proper testing, proper materials, proper documentation, and someone who's accountable if something goes wrong. We're licensed, insured and listed with the Electrical Safety Office — verifiable any time.
If you're not sure whether the job you're thinking about needs an electrician, just ask. We'll tell you straight — and if it's something a handyman can do, we'll tell you that too.