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DIY Renovations and Electrical Issues | Christchurch Electrical

Christchurch Electrical • April 25, 2019

Electrical Issues to Keep in Mind When Doing DIY Renovations

DIY home renovations are an increasingly popular choice for many homeowners. When completed correctly, DIY renovations can end up saving you a decent amount of money! However, working around your electricity system is serious business, so it’s always best to know what you’re doing. To avoid damaging your home or even risking your own safety , it’s a good idea to create a plan and stick to it. Remember - always call in a qualified electrician to complete any wiring work.

Electrician working with wires at attic renovation site

Plan Carefully to Avoid Electrical Damage

If you’re renovating your kitchen, lounge or bedroom, the location of your power points should be a serious consideration. Think about where you want to install your appliances or plug in your devices before drawing up a renovation plan. If you’re planning on knocking down some walls during your renovations, it’s important to keep your electrical wiring in mind. Before you start drilling or hammering, you should make sure you’re not going to hit a wire. A qualified electrician should be able to help you out.

Jobs to Leave to the Experts

In New Zealand, there are laws that mean most electrical work should only be completed by qualified and registered electricians. While it’s okay to install a smoke detector or change a light globe, any serious renovations will likely require an expert. Don’t attempt any DIY work on power points. This includes installing new power points or changing the location of existing power points. It’s a lot easier and safer to simply call in an experienced electrician. Replacing light switches is another job that’s better left to the pros. It’s simply not worth the risk.

Risks of DIY Electrical Work

While painting, plastering or tiling can be a walk in the park for an experienced home renovator, electrical work is another story. Attempting your own electrical work might seem like a good idea at the time, but you could be taking on some serious risks. Working with wiring or electrical appliances requires training and expertise. By attempting DIY work, you’re risking shocks, electrical burns or even electrocution. Shoddy electrical work can also cause damage to your home later down the track.

When in Doubt, Call in the Experts

Doing your own home renovations can be a lot of fun, and it’s always satisfying when your work comes out perfectly. However, attempting DIY work when you lack experience can lead to shoddy end results. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to contact an expert, especially for any electrical work. A registered electrician can ensure your home’s wiring, lighting and appliances are safe and reliable.

The team at Christchurch Electrical are experts in home renovations. Contact us today on 03 366 1718 to see how we can make upgrading your home a stress-free experience.

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