Chinatown’s mix of older shopfronts, converted upper-level dwellings and high-rise apartments often means altered wiring, busy switchboards and DIY changes—polarity testing helps catch dangerous miswiring before it causes shocks or appliance damage.
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We test polarity at accessible power points to confirm active, neutral and earth are correctly connected. Incorrect polarity can make appliances hazardous, increase shock risk, and create confusing fault symptoms even when everything appears to “work”.
We visually assess the switchboard for safety concerns such as heat damage indicators, missing blanks, incorrect labelling, poor access, or signs of non-professional alterations. Switchboard issues can be a red flag for broader wiring risks in the property.
We check whether RCDs are installed where expected and perform basic operational checks where safe and accessible. RCDs reduce the risk of serious electric shock, particularly in kitchens, laundries and areas where moisture can be present.
We inspect accessible cabling, fittings and terminations for warning signs like brittle insulation, exposed conductors, loose fittings, or ad-hoc joinery. These issues often appear after multiple renovations or quick turnarounds between tenants.
We note smoke alarm presence and the visible power arrangement (hardwired vs battery where observable), along with placement concerns that may affect effectiveness. We also flag when compliance or electrician follow-up should be prioritised.
We identify practical risk areas linked to modern loads—split systems, cooktops, dryers and multiple chargers—by noting circuit and outlet setups that may suggest overloading or inadequate protection. This helps you plan safe upgrades rather than relying on power boards.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Chinatown properties often have a history of upgrades, tenancy changes and added outlets, which increases the chance of wiring being altered over time. Polarity faults can leave a power point appearing normal while still presenting a shock hazard or damaging appliances. Polarity testing checks that active, neutral and earth are correctly connected at accessible outlets, helping you catch dangerous miswiring before you rely on the circuits daily.
Yes. We visually review the switchboard for safety red flags such as missing covers or blanks, heat damage indicators, poor access, or signs of non-professional work. We also check for the presence of safety switches (RCDs) and carry out basic functionality checks where safe and accessible. If we find concerns that require testing beyond a non-invasive inspection, we’ll recommend follow-up by a qualified electrician.
We assess key safety elements and identify hazards, but full compliance confirmation can require electrical testing, certification and rectification work that only a licensed electrician can provide. Our role is to pinpoint risks such as polarity faults, missing RCD protection, unsafe visible wiring, and switchboard issues, then explain what those findings mean. If compliance is a concern (for renting or renovation), we’ll outline what to request next.
In Chinatown, many dwellings sit within strata buildings where the main supply, meters, and some switchboards may be in common areas. Access can be restricted, and responsibility can be split between lot owners and the owners corporation. We’ll inspect what’s accessible within the property and note any limitations. If we identify risks that may relate to common services, we’ll document them so you can raise the right questions with strata or building management.
We include smoke alarm observations as part of the electrical safety context. We’ll note whether alarms are present and comment on visible power arrangements and placement concerns where observable. Because smoke alarm rules and installation requirements can vary, and full verification may require closer testing or electrician input, we’ll focus on practical risk indicators and tell you what follow-up steps are sensible if anything looks missing, outdated or incorrectly set up.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on polarity safety, switchboard risks, RCD coverage and smoke alarm setup so you know what’s safe, what’s urgent, and what to ask an electrician to fix. Call 0413 163 187.