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Northcote’s mix of older weatherboards, terraces and renovated homes can hide reversed polarity, ageing wiring and patchwork switchboard upgrades—issues that only show up under proper testing.
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We test selected power points to confirm active/neutral/earth orientation. Incorrect polarity can leave appliance casings energised and increase shock risk, especially on older circuits that have been extended during renovations.
We visually assess the switchboard for legacy components, overheating indicators, poor labelling, and the presence and condition of circuit breakers and RCDs. This matters in Northcote where older boards are often upgraded in stages and can end up with inconsistent protection.
We confirm which circuits are RCD protected and perform basic operational checks where accessible. RCD gaps commonly occur after renovations or extensions, leaving some power or lighting circuits without rapid disconnection protection.
We look for signs of adequate earthing at accessible points and note concerns such as missing earth connections or questionable bonding in wet areas. Proper earthing is critical to reduce shock risk and to ensure protective devices work as intended.
Without opening walls, we check visible cabling, junctions and fittings for deterioration, heat damage, exposed conductors, or non-standard joins. Older Northcote homes can show wear in roof spaces or underfloor areas, particularly where insulation or storage has been added.
We note the presence and basic suitability of smoke alarms as part of broader electrical safety context. Where alarms appear missing, poorly located, or outdated, we flag it so you can address life-safety risks and compliance obligations.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Many Northcote properties started with older wiring and have been updated over time—often room by room. That can create a mix of cable types, older outlets, and newer additions, which increases the chance of polarity faults or missing RCD protection. An assessment helps identify hazards in accessible parts of the system so you can rectify issues before moving in, renovating, or renting the property.
Polarity is the correct connection of active, neutral and earth. If polarity is reversed, a fitting or appliance can behave in unexpected ways and may leave exposed parts energised. That raises shock risk and can affect how protective devices operate. Our assessment uses electrical testing to detect polarity issues at selected outlets so faults can be corrected by a qualified electrician.
Yes. We inspect the switchboard’s condition and note the type of protective devices fitted, including circuit breakers and RCDs (safety switches). We also identify where RCD coverage appears incomplete, which is a common problem in homes that have had piecemeal upgrades. If we find concerns, we outline practical recommendations for an electrician to investigate and remedy.
They can. Renovations often add new power points, lighting circuits, kitchen loads, outdoor power, or split systems, and sometimes the original wiring remains in service. If the upgrade wasn’t comprehensive, you can end up with uneven RCD protection, overloaded circuits, or questionable connections. An Electrical Safety Assessment helps you understand what’s been modernised properly and what may need further work.
This assessment focuses on electrical safety risks we can identify through accessible inspection and polarity testing, plus observations of switchboard protection and smoke alarms. It is not a substitute for a comprehensive electrical compliance certification performed by a licensed electrician, especially for hidden wiring or major alterations. If we identify issues or limitations, we’ll clearly explain what follow-up testing or rectification is appropriate.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on polarity testing, switchboard protection and practical safety findings suited to Northcote’s older-and-renovated housing mix. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an assessment.