How to Tell If You Need a House Rewire

As a homeowner, it is important to ensure that your house's electrical wiring is safe and up-to-date.

Old wiring can pose significant safety risks, including the risk of fire.
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Therefore, it's essential to know what to look for so you can know when your home requires a rewire.

In this article, we will discuss the risks of old home wiring, new government regulations for home wiring, signs your wiring might need to be replaced, how often you should get your wiring checked, who can check your wiring, and the wiring requirements in Victoria rental properties.

Risks of Old Home Wiring

Old electrical wiring in a home can be hazardous as it is often not designed to cope with the increased electrical demands of modern living. 

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Over time, old wiring can deteriorate, resulting in fraying, sparking, and even disintegration of the rubber insulation. 

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As a result, it can be a fire risk, and it's essential to identify the signs of old wiring to avoid a potential disaster.

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New Government Regulations for Home Wiring

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In Victoria, there are regulations for wiring a home, and they provide guidelines on when wiring needs to be replaced. 

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The government recommends that homeowners get their wiring checked every ten years or when they experience a significant electrical fault. 

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Additionally, new installations in homes must adhere to the wiring rules and standards set out by the government to ensure they are safe and up-to-date.

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Signs Your Wiring Might Need to be Replaced

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There are several signs that your wiring might need to be replaced. 

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These may include: 

• frayed or discoloured wiring, 
• sparking or flickering lights or switches, 
• the smell of burning coming from your electrical outlets. 

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Additionally, if your home has old black rubber or cotton wiring, it's likely time for a rewire.

How Often You Should Get Your Wiring Checked

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As mentioned earlier, it is recommended that homeowners get their wiring checked every ten years or after experiencing a significant electrical fault. 

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Getting your wiring checked periodically can help identify any potential hazards and ensure that your home is safe.

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Who Can Check Your Wiring?

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If you need your wiring checked, it is essential to engage a licensed electrical professional to do so (check electrical licenses here). 

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Checking it yourself can be hazardous and even deadly, as it can be challenging to identify the hazards correctly. 

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Therefore, it's best to leave it to the experts who can identify any potential problems and make the necessary repairs or replacements.

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What Are the Wiring Requirements in Victoria Rental Properties?

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If you are a landlord in Victoria, it is mandatory to ensure that your rental property's electrical wiring is safe and up-to-date. 

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Therefore, it's essential to get your wiring checked by a licensed electrical professional and obtain a certificate of electrical safety. 

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The certificate confirms that your rental property meets the latest Victorian requirements, and it's valid for up to five years.

Get Your Electrical Wiring Checked Today

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In conclusion, the safety of your home's electrical wiring is critical, and it's essential to know the signs of old wiring and when it needs to be replaced. 

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Regular checks by a licensed electrical professional can help ensure that your home is safe and up-to-date with the latest regulations.

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