If an electrician has done work at your place and you never received a certificate, that's a red flag. It's one of the simplest ways to tell a properly licensed job from a dodgy one.
What is a Certificate of Electrical Safety?
According to Energy Safe Victoria, electrical work done for a customer must be recorded on a Certificate of Electrical Safety issued by a registered electrical contractor (REC) or licensed electrician. Unlicensed people can't buy or lodge them. It records what was done, where, by whom and the test results.
Prescribed vs non-prescribed work
- Non-prescribed work covers most household jobs, such as lights, power points, air conditioning and hot water connections. No independent inspection is needed, and the electrician must give you a copy within 30 days.
- Prescribed work is higher-risk work like consumer mains, the main switchboard, meter box, main earthing and solar or battery systems. It must be inspected by an independent Licensed Electrical Inspector, ideally within 8 business days of completion, and can't be switched on until it's inspected. You should get your copy within 4 days of the certificate being completed.
That's why a switchboard upgrade involves an extra inspection step, while a new power point or light doesn't.
Why it matters to you
- Insurance. If there's ever a fire or damage claim, your insurer may ask for proof the work was done legally.
- Selling or renting. Buyers, agents and property managers increasingly ask for electrical paperwork.
- Peace of mind. It confirms the work was tested before the electrician left.
How to check your certificate
Energy Safe Victoria lets you search for electronic certificates issued from July 2019, and request a free copy if you can show a link to the property. You can also check that your contractor is registered on the public register. Our registration is REC 28054.
Every Buggzy's job comes with one
Whether it's a single power point or a full split system install, we issue a Certificate of Electrical Safety on every job. No exceptions.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Certificate of Electrical Safety required in Victoria?
Yes. Energy Safe Victoria requires electrical work done for a customer to be recorded on a Certificate of Electrical Safety issued by a registered electrical contractor or licensed electrician.
How long does an electrician have to give me a CES?
For non-prescribed work like lights, power points and air conditioning, within 30 days. For prescribed work that needs independent inspection, within 4 days of the certificate being completed after inspection.
Do I get a CES for a split system install?
Yes. The electrical connection for an air conditioner is non-prescribed electrical work and must be covered by a certificate. We issue one for every job.
Need this sorted properly?
We're happy to talk it through over the phone or come out for a free, no-obligation quote across Ballarat and surrounds.
