But with so many options available, how do you find a reliable, qualified wireman who suits your specific needs?
This guide offers practical tips to help you make an informed choice when selecting a wireman in Australia, ensuring peace of mind and value for money.
1. Verify Licensing & Insurance
In Australia, all electrical technicians must be licensed to carry out electrical work legally. They have completed the required training and apprenticeships and are qualified to perform installations, repairs and maintenance in compliance with national standards. Ask to see their’s licence number and check it with your state’s licensing authority. This ensures you’re not only hiring someone with the right credentials but also someone accountable under law.
Additionally, confirm that the repairman holds public liability insurance. This protects you from financial responsibility in case of accidental damage or injury during the job.
2. Assess Experience & Specialisations
Not all electricians offer the same services or have experience in every type of electrical work. For example, some may specialise in residential wiring, while others focus on commercial or industrial projects. Before making a decision, determine whether they have experience relevant to your project—whether that’s installing solar panels, upgrading a switchboard or fitting out a new home build.
Experience often correlates with efficiency and quality of work. An experienced electrical technician will likely identify potential issues quickly and deliver solutions that comply with current regulations.
3. Ask About Compliance & Standards
Australian electrical work must adhere to the AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules, commonly known as the Australian Electrical Standards. A reputable professional will ensure all work is compliant and will be familiar with recent changes in regulations, including energy efficiency measures and safety switches.
It’s essential to choose someone who can explain their approach to compliance and is willing to provide a Certificate of Electrical Safety upon completion of the work. This certificate confirms the job meets legal standards and offers protection should issues arise later.
4. Read Reviews & Request References
Online reviews can be a helpful indicator of an electrician’s reliability and quality of work. Look for consistent feedback across platforms like Google, True Local or productreview.com.au. Pay attention to comments about punctuality, professionalism, workmanship and communication.
In addition to reading reviews, don’t hesitate to ask the electrical technician for references from recent jobs. Speaking directly with past clients offers insights that online reviews may miss and can give you confidence in your choice.
5. Get Multiple Quotes
To ensure you’re getting a fair price, obtain at least three quotes from different electrical technicians. A detailed quote should outline the scope of work, materials, labour costs and expected completion time. Be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than others—they may indicate shortcuts in safety, substandard materials or hidden costs that arise later.
While price is important, it shouldn’t be the sole factor in your decision. Focus on value for money: quality workmanship, compliance and long-term safety are worth the investment.
6. Consider Communication & Professionalism
The right electrical expert will communicate clearly, respond promptly and take the time to understand your needs. From the initial phone call or site visit, note whether they are courteous, knowledgeable and transparent about costs and timelines.
Professionalism also includes showing up on time, maintaining a clean work area and treating your property with respect. Good communication throughout the project helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures the final result matches your expectations.
7. Check for Emergency Services & Availability
Some electrical issues, like power outages or exposed wires, require urgent attention. If you’re looking for long-term support or own multiple properties, consider choosing an electrical expert who offers 24/7 emergency services. This can be particularly helpful during seasonal extremes—such as summer heatwaves or winter storms, when electrical demand is higher.
In summary, finding the right electrician is about more than just finding someone with tools and a van. It’s about ensuring that the person you hire is qualified, experienced, trustworthy and aligned with your expectations. Whether it’s a simple installation or a complex wiring upgrade, a reliable expert will deliver safe, compliant and efficient results that stand the test of time.
By taking the time to research, ask questions and compare options, you can confidently choose the best wireman for your needs—and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a job well done.