What to do if you recieve an electrical defect notice

Most people have no idea what an electrical defect notice is, let alone what it looks like, why you got it and (most importantly) what to do when you receive one!

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That’s why we’re here! Read on to find out everything you need to know about electrical defect notices. 

What is an electrical defect notice?

An electrical defect notice is a document that will be issued to the owner of a property if power authorities determine their connection doesn’t comply with the national or local electrical safety standards. 

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All connections to energy company networks in Australia should adhere to the relevant safety standards, including:

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• Ausgrid’s electrical supply network standards
• Electricity (consumer safety) Regulation 2006
• All Legal Electrical Requirements from the VIC Government 

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In the notice, the power inspection authority will detail all the defects they found after performing their routine or a requested inspection on your property. 

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The electrical defect notice will also include a period of time in which you need to get the defect fixed.

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If you don’t fix the electrical defect in the required time frame, the power to your property will be cut off for your safety. 

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Your electrical provider can and will turn off your power if the issue is not fixed because for the power companies, safety always comes first. 

Here is what an electrical defect notice looks like: 

Why would you receive an electrical defect notice? 

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There are many reasons you could receive an electrical defect notice. Here are just a few:

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1. Spoilt or missing equipment

If you do not have the required equipment required for the safe distribution of power (ie. proper earthing cable or at least one safety switch) the power authority may rule that it is too risky to continue providing power to the property. 

This can also be the case if the equipment is very old or faulty and doesn’t comply with the current Victorian standards for electrical safety. 

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2. Outdated switchboards

Older switchboards could include switchboards that use old cotton wiring or ceramic fuses that are no longer in compliance with the Victorian standards for electrical safety. 

In fact, if your current switchboard was installed prior to 2000 you will most likely need to get it checked as prior to that year they were not required by legislation to have safety switches installed which is now illegal and can pose a safety risk. 

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3. Low overhead cables

These can pose a safety risk and need to be rectified as soon as possible. 

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4. Problems in points of attachment/ main fuse box

This can include frayed or improperly attached wiring. Secure points of attachment are incredibly important as they are what channels the electricity from the grid into your property. 

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5. A hazardous private power pole

This can occur if the powerline connecting your property to the main switchboard is not in good condition. 

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For safe distribution of power and to ensure the steel or timber pole won't fall this will need to be made safe for continued supply of electricity. 

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According to ausgrid, it is the homeowners responsibility to perform maintenance work and repair any defect for the first connection point on their property. So it's crucial to get the electrical work on your private powerline done as soon as the inspection officials issue you the electrical defect notice. 

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6. Vegetation or tree overgrowth

This can also occur due to overhead electricity cables coming in contact with vegetation or trees. In this case, you will need to hire licensed operators to clear this vegetation safely. 

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What to do when you receive an electrical defect notice

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Upon receiving the defect notice, you generally have up to 21 business days (or three weeks) to eliminate any defect found. However, if the fault is serious and poses an immediate threat they can disconnect your power immediately so it is important to book a trusted electrician ASAP. 

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Ensure you get a qualified electrician who will complete the work in accordance with all the required Victorian government standards. 

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Not sure how to find a reliable electrician? Check out our article ‘How to choose the right electrician’.

What do I do if the place I am renting receives an electrical defect notice?

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If you are a tenant and you receive an electrical defect notice, you will need to notify the landlord or property manager ASAP as they only have 21 business days to remedy the issue after receiving the notice or the power may be disconnected. 

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You will want to follow them up to ensure this is completed in the required time frame. 

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If you can't meet the deadline for unforeseen circumstances you may be able to receive an extension, however, if the defect is serious the power will be shut off. 

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Still nervous or unsure of how to proceed? Get in touch today!

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It can be tempting to put off things like booking electricians as they fall into the ‘too hard’ basket. However, at 181 Electrical we are here to make the experience as easy as possible for you. 

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Providing clear communication throughout the duration of the job as well as quality workmanship, our aim is to make this as easy an experience as possible for you. 

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Electrical defects are not something you can ignore as you will end up getting the power cut to your property. 

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Even if you have questions regarding your electrical defect notice, feel free to call us using the number in the top right hand corner of this page or get in touch with us using the button below!

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