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Heatherton homes often mix older wiring with newer renovations and added circuits—polarity faults and overloaded switchboards can hide behind modern powerpoints until they become a shock or fire risk.
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We test for correct active/neutral polarity and basic earth presence at accessible outlets. Reversed polarity can make appliances and light fittings unexpectedly live, increasing shock risk even when a switch is off.
We inspect the switchboard setup for visible defects and outdated protection, including signs of heat stress, poor labelling, mismatched components, and whether safety switches are installed where they’re typically expected for household circuits.
Where RCDs are present, we test that they trip as intended using the inbuilt test function and identify circuits not covered. An RCD that won’t trip, or circuits without RCD protection, can leave occupants exposed to dangerous faults.
We look for damaged insulation, unsupported cabling, unsafe joins, exposed conductors, and signs of rodent damage in accessible areas (such as subfloors, garages, and roof spaces where safely accessible). These issues can lead to arcing and fire.
We pay close attention to circuits and outlets commonly used for high-load appliances and split systems. Overloaded points, multi-adapter dependence, and heat discoloration can indicate stress that warrants electrician review.
We confirm smoke alarms are present and note obvious placement gaps or ageing units where visible. While compliance specifics can vary, this check highlights practical life-safety issues that should be addressed promptly.
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Get Electrical Safety Assessment as part of a comprehensive inspection package
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Yes. Renovations often add new powerpoints and circuits, but older wiring can remain in other parts of the home. Polarity faults can occur from incorrect terminations, mixed cabling, or changes made over time. A Heatherton Electrical Safety Assessment checks accessible outlets for correct polarity and highlights any areas that may need an electrician’s follow-up, especially where old and new work meet.
A polarity check focuses on whether outlets are wired correctly and whether basic safety protections are working, which helps identify common shock hazards quickly. A full electrical inspection by an electrician is more comprehensive and can include opening equipment, detailed testing, and performing repairs. Our assessment is designed to identify safety concerns and guide you on what to ask an electrician to investigate or rectify.
Yes, we include a safety-focused switchboard review and safety switch (RCD) checks where present. We look for visible defects, older-style components, and signs of overheating, and we confirm whether RCDs can be tested. If circuits aren’t RCD-protected or the board shows concerning wear, we’ll recommend electrician advice and prioritise the items that pose the highest risk.
Common issues include older switchboards that have been updated in stages, wiring that’s been extended multiple times, and modern outlets fitted to older cabling. It’s also not unusual to see outdoor power added for entertaining areas or sheds without adequate protection. These patterns can lead to polarity errors, poor earthing, and circuits that lack RCD coverage, which is why targeted safety testing is worthwhile.
Make sure we can safely access the switchboard, key rooms (kitchen, laundry, bedrooms), and any areas with recent electrical work such as outdoor power or garage conversions. If you have documentation for recent upgrades, keep it handy. We’ll avoid moving heavy furniture, so clearing access to a few powerpoints in each room helps us complete polarity and safety checks efficiently.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on polarity testing, switchboard risks, RCD coverage and smoke-alarm safety so you know what needs urgent electrical attention—call 0485 857 077.