Collingwood’s mix of older terraces, warehouse conversions and renovated rentals can hide reversed polarity, dated switchboards and DIY wiring changes that create real shock and fire risk.
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We test accessible outlets for correct active/neutral/earth polarity to identify wiring reversals that can make appliances unsafe and increase shock risk, particularly in older rooms that have been re-wired or extended over time.
We visually assess the accessible switchboard for signs of overheating, scorching, corrosion, moisture entry, damaged covers, missing blanks and labelling issues, which can indicate elevated fault risk and poor maintainability.
We check whether safety switches are fitted to relevant circuits and, where accessible and safe to do so, perform an operational test using the test button to confirm the device trips as intended.
We look for accessible indicators of unsafe work such as exposed conductors, unsupported cabling, deteriorated insulation, makeshift joins, incorrect fittings, or damage around lights and power points that suggests heat or movement.
We confirm smoke alarms are present and note placement concerns that commonly arise after renovations, such as missing alarms near bedrooms or alarms placed where airflow may reduce effectiveness, prompting compliance follow-up.
Where we identify concerns outside the scope of non-invasive testing, we document clear recommendations for a licensed electrician, including priority items (urgent safety hazards) versus upgrade items (risk reduction and modern load capacity).
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These properties are often upgraded in stages, meaning newer circuits can be tied into older wiring or altered during fit-outs. That mix increases the chance of polarity errors, overloaded circuits, or dated switchboard components. Our assessment focuses on practical safety checks—polarity testing at accessible outlets, a switchboard safety review, and safety switch checks—so you can identify hazards early and arrange electrician repairs before occupancy.
It’s a safety-focused assessment that includes polarity testing at accessible power points and checks that relate directly to electrical safety, such as switchboard condition, presence and basic function of safety switches (where possible), visible wiring defects, and smoke alarm presence. It is non-invasive and not a full electrical audit. If we find risks, we recommend a licensed electrician for further testing and rectification.
Common concerns include missing or incorrectly applied safety switches, older switchboards that show heat stress, damaged or loose power points, and wiring alterations that don’t match the age of the building. In renovated homes, we also see inconsistent labelling and circuits added without clear identification. Polarity faults can occur at individual outlets, so targeted testing helps pinpoint where corrective work is needed.
We can still carry out polarity testing at accessible outlets within the apartment, check visible wiring and fittings, and confirm smoke alarm presence and placement. If the apartment switchboard is inside the unit we can review it; if it’s in a locked common area, we note limitations and recommend arranging access through the owners corporation or agent. Any concerns are documented for electrician follow-up.
Yes. We separate findings into safety-critical items (for example, indicators of overheating, damaged outlets, missing protection, or polarity faults) and lower-priority upgrades that improve safety and usability over time. We also explain what requires a licensed electrician and why, so you can make informed decisions, plan the next steps, and avoid spending money on the wrong fixes first.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchCall ACE Building and Pest Inspections on 0413 163 187 for polarity testing and practical safety checks suited to Collingwood’s older and renovated homes.