How to choose the right Perth electrician and know when you need one

Why you might need an electrician in Perth

If your lights are flickering, your switchboard keeps tripping, or your power points are warm to the touch, it could be time to call a professional. In Perth, the mix of older homes and newer builds means electrical problems show up in different ways. This section explains when a licensed Perth electrician is not just helpful but necessary.

Signs you need an electrician

• Safety switch keeps tripping
• Burning smell near switches or sockets
• Lights dim or flicker regularly
• Power points or switches spark
• You hear buzzing near outlets
• You are adding new appliances or devices

Electrical problems are often invisible until they become dangerous. Even small warning signs are worth checking out. If you ignore these issues, they can lead to power outages, electric shock, or even fire. Some faults develop slowly, which is why early diagnosis and repair is so important.

References

https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy/homeowners-electrical-installations
https://www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au/electrical-safety-outside-home/switch-electrical-safety 

What can you safely do yourself and what you should never try

In WA, there are strict rules around what homeowners can legally do with electrical work. Many DIY tasks you might try in other parts of the house are off-limits here. This section outlines the boundary between simple checks and jobs that require a qualified Perth electrician.

Safe DIY tasks

• Replacing light globes
• Resetting circuit breakers or safety switches
• Using a plug-in tester to check outlets

Jobs that must be done by a licensed electrician

• Installing or replacing light switches
• Adding new power points
• Replacing ceiling fans or downlights
• Doing any work on your switchboard
• Installing home automation systems
• Installing electric ovens or cooktops

It is tempting to think some of these are quick jobs, but wiring is not forgiving. If something goes wrong, it could cost more to fix than if you had called in help from the start. It could also cause real harm. Legal obligations aside, safety should always come first.

References

https://www.wa.gov.au/government/multi-step-guides/electrical-safety-home/having-electrical-work-done
https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy/electrical-licence-search

Why electrical problems happen in Perth homes

Perth homes are diverse — from 70s brick veneer homes with ageing cabling to new homes overloaded with modern devices. This section explores why problems occur, what to look out for, and what happens if they are ignored.

Common electrical issues

• Overloaded circuits: caused by too many devices on one line
• Old wiring: common in homes built before the 1980s
• Sparking outlets: from worn internal contacts or water ingress
• Flickering lights: often due to loose connections
• Buzzing noises: may point to arcing or bad earthing

Electrical faults can start small but become dangerous if not addressed. Problems like degraded insulation, loose earth wiring, or water damage behind walls are hard to detect without tools. In older suburbs like Inglewood or Bayswater, we often find rubber cabling or ungrounded circuits still in use.

New homes are not always problem-free either. Many have more power-hungry appliances, leading to frequent overloading or nuisance tripping. Extension cords and powerboards are sometimes used beyond their limits, particularly in growing households.

References

https://www.masterelectricians.com.au/Homeowners/Safety
https://www.productsafety.gov.au/about-us/product-safety-news/news/review-of-the-regulatory-framework-for-the-safety-of-household-electrical-products

How to choose a reliable provider and what to expect from Smartfix

Choosing a good tradie is not about who is cheapest. It is about safety, clarity and trust. Here is what to expect from a professional — and what we do at Smartfix.

What makes a good Perth electrician

• They are licensed and insured
• They explain the problem clearly
• They give fixed pricing where possible
• They follow safety protocols
• They do a clean, thorough job
• They do not cut corners or rush
• They answer questions without hesitation

How Smartfix works

When you book with Smartfix:

• We arrive on time and assess the whole issue
• We talk you through what is happening
• We offer options and explain pricing before we begin
• We fix it properly and clean up after
• We can organise patching or painting if needed

Our team includes qualified electricians, apprentices, and support from other trades if the job goes beyond wiring. That means fewer visits and faster outcomes. We also keep notes for return visits and track history across properties, so if you ever need us again, we are already familiar.

References

https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy/electrical-safety-checklist
https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/help-centre/online-tools/home-building-licence-check

How to prevent common issues in Perth homes

Prevention is better than a costly fix. These tips are designed to help you spot small problems before they grow.

Ongoing safety tips

• Test your RCDs every three months using the test button
• Replace damaged cords and plugs right away
• Avoid power board chains (one plugged into another)
• Do not use outlets near water unless they are protected
• Get a professional inspection every 12 months
• Do not overload power points or double adaptors
• Avoid using high-draw appliances on the same circuit

When to consider a switchboard upgrade

• You do not see safety switches marked clearly
• You still have ceramic fuses or screw-in types
• There is buzzing, heat or burning smells
• Lights dim when larger appliances run
• Some old black backing panels are asbestos

Switchboards are the heart of your home’s electrical system. Upgrades protect you from shock, fire and outages. They also help you comply with new safety standards and insurance rules.

References

https://www.masterelectricians.com.au/Homeowners/Safety/safety-switches

How we handle special requests and complex jobs

Sometimes a job goes beyond basic fault finding or fixture replacement. Here is how we handle the more complex stuff.

Renovation support

If you are renovating, it is important to get the electrical layout right before the walls go up. We work with builders or directly with homeowners to:

• Map power needs for new rooms
• Plan safe lighting and switch locations
• Add enough circuits for new appliances
• Coordinate with other trades to avoid delays

Home office and smart upgrades

Since COVID, many homes have converted bedrooms into offices. We have helped customers:

• Add data ports or smart wiring
• Set up surge-protected power outlets
• Install lighting that works well for screens

We also help with home automation setups and integrated systems like cameras, intercoms or controlled lighting.

Urgent electrical callouts

Power cuts. Smoking sockets. No hot water. These are common callouts we handle fast. If it is an emergency, we prioritise safety and stability first — then discuss long-term fixes if needed.

References

https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/energy-and-environment/electrical-safety
https://www.wa.gov.au/government/announcements/dont-diy-electrical-and-gas-safety-campaign

Common questions about electrical work in Perth

Can I install a ceiling fan or light fitting myself?

No. These jobs require a licensed electrician in WA. Even if the wiring is already in place, the installation must be inspected and signed off.

How do I check if someone is licensed?

Use the WA Electrical Licence Search or ask to see their physical licence. All Smartfix electricians are fully licensed.

What does a switchboard upgrade involve?

We inspect the current board, remove old fuses or circuit breakers, and install new RCDs and breakers to meet modern safety standards.

Are all faults emergencies?

Not always. But sparking, loss of power, burning smells or buzzing noises should always be treated as urgent.

Do I need safety switches on every circuit?

In most homes, yes. It is now standard for every power and lighting circuit to be RCD protected. This applies to renovations as well.

References

https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy/electrical-licence-search
https://www.masterelectricians.com.au/2020/11/26/five-ways-sparkies-can-help-homeowners-with-electrical-safety/

Why we care about getting the job done right

I have worked in homes all over Perth. What I have learned is that a good job is not just about the wiring. It is about doing the right thing, speaking honestly, and leaving no loose ends.

We built Smartfix to be different. We do not rush the job. We do not offer upsells you do not need. We send licensed tradies who take the time to do things right. We do not expect customers to know the ins and outs of wiring. That is our job. What matters is trust. You call us once and we make sure the problem is fully resolved.

One call every trade is not just a line. It is how we make life easier for homeowners who want one team to sort it all.
Thanks for reading. If you need help, we are ready when you are.

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Why these services matter to the Perth community

Electrical work is not just about cables, switches, and regulations. It is about making homes safe, usable and comfortable for the people living in them. At Smartfix, every service we offer — from emergency callouts to EV charging — comes from a real need we have seen over and over again in Perth homes.

Emergency electrical services

Perth homes face unique challenges. Strong heat waves, coastal humidity and ageing infrastructure often mean that power faults are not just inconvenient, but dangerous. Whether it is a blown fuse in a family home, a fridge losing power overnight, or a sparking outlet after heavy rain — we have seen how electrical emergencies can ruin someone’s day or put their home at risk.

We offer fast-response emergency services because we believe peace of mind matters. When things go wrong, knowing you have a local expert on call can be the difference between damage and disaster.

https://teamsmartfix.com.au/services/electrical/emergency-electrical/

Electrical safety inspections

Many Perth homes still rely on outdated wiring or unprotected circuits. We have inspected switchboards with live terminals exposed. We have seen DIY wiring behind walls and poorly grounded power points installed by unqualified workers. That is why we take inspections seriously.

We perform safety checks not just because it is required, but because it protects lives. RCD testing, load balancing and earthing checks help catch problems before they spark real damage.

https://teamsmartfix.com.au/services/electrical/electrical-safety/

Power circuit upgrades

Modern living means more power-hungry appliances — air cons, induction cooktops, entertainment setups. But many Perth homes still rely on outdated power circuits. These setups were never built to handle today’s electrical loads.

We upgrade power circuits to make sure the system can handle what you throw at it. No flickering lights. No tripped breakers. Just safe, stable electricity for every part of your home.

https://teamsmartfix.com.au/services/electrical/power-circuits/

Lighting that works for how you live

Lighting changes everything. Whether it is a bright workspace, a relaxing lounge or secure outdoor paths, we help people light their homes for comfort, safety and efficiency. In Perth’s harsh sunlight and long evenings, good lighting makes your home more liveable.
We install, upgrade and repair lighting with an eye for detail. That includes LED upgrades, dimmers, outdoor lights, and energy-saving setups.

https://teamsmartfix.com.au/services/electrical/lighting/

Air movement solutions

Hot summer nights. Poor airflow. No breeze. These are things every Perth homeowner has dealt with. That is why we offer ceiling fan and air circulation installs.

Our air movement services are designed to keep energy costs low while making homes feel more comfortable. A well-placed fan can do a lot more than people think — it can reduce AC costs and improve airflow in ways many homes are missing.

https://teamsmartfix.com.au/services/electrical/air-movement/

Data, TV, and CCTV systems

Today’s homes are smarter, more connected and more secure than ever — but only if the systems are installed properly. Whether it is boosting your Wi-Fi range, getting crystal clear digital TV reception, or installing reliable home security cameras, we make it easy.

For us, it is about more than just tech. It is about giving people peace of mind, helping families stay connected, and protecting what matters.

https://teamsmartfix.com.au/services/electrical/cctv-systems-tv-data/

Electric vehicle charging

EV ownership is growing fast in WA, and Perth homeowners are leading the way. But a proper EV charger is not just a plug and play unit. It requires load calculation, wall mounting, certified connections and safety compliance.

We install EV chargers that are compatible, safe and built to last. We know the local grid. We know the hardware. And we make sure the install fits with the long-term needs of your home.

https://teamsmartfix.com.au/services/electrical/electrical-vehicle-charging-ev/

Why we do it this way

We did not add these services because they sounded good on a flyer. We added them because customers needed them. Every offering we have comes from jobs we saw again and again, where people were let down by cut corners or poor workmanship.

We believe homeowners in Perth deserve reliable help from people who care about quality. We believe every job, no matter how small, is a chance to do something right. And we believe electrical work should never be about patching — it should be about fixing things properly.

That is why we built Smartfix the way we did. And that is why we keep improving, training, and showing up.