Find the best local Electricians near me

Master Electricians Association

What jobs should I hire an electrician for?

1. Electrical Repairs

   Accurate diagnosis of the problem, as well as a fast, safe and effective resolution, is essential for electrical repairs. There are all sorts of reasons why a circuit may malfunction: often, the only sign that something is wrong can be that an appliance stops working! An electrician will be able to quickly work out what's wrong with boilers, sockets, light fixtures, heating systems, machinery and other electrical devices. They can also fix the problem, or, if that's not the safest option, suggest a suitable replacement or another solution.

2. Fix or install lighting fixtures

   A key part of any building, both commercial and residential electricians are responsible for installing, repairing and inspecting lighting installations. If necessary, they are able to wire an entire building for lighting, as well as create fresh lighting points if required. Electricians can also advise on the most suitable light for various locations (including the legal requirements for lighting in public or workplaces). Installing appropriate lighting can improve safety, enhance visual appeal and even save money on energy bills. As well as buildings, specialist electricians can also advise on lighting for construction sites, boats and outbuildings.

3. Home automation

   A relatively new innovation, home automation allows you to program your home to do a variety of different tasks, controlled remotely through your smartphone or a remote control. From simple activities such as automatic curtain (or blind) pulling, along with automatic lighting changes in the evening, through to sophisticated programming that controls heating, security, the oven, hot water and even your entertainment system, home automation has the potential to transform the way you live!

4. Data Cabling

   Data cabling is a key feature of many commercial buildings - with IT now an integral part of almost every business, there is often a need to put the cabling in place which connects various pieces of hardware. Electricians are able to complete this work, as well as ensure that the other infrastructure needed to run multiple printers, desktops or similar (for example sockets) are available.

5. Replace and upgrade switchboards

   Switchboards are found in everything from homes to cars and machinery. Frequently consisting of numerous circuits and connections, they are generally subject to tough treatment. Inevitably, the connections which make up switchboards can age over time. In addition, as the regulations governing electrical installations are updated, it's likely that some switchboards will no longer be fit for purpose. An electrician can upgrade your switchboard, enabling it to cope with 21st-century demands.

6. Repair or install electrical wiring

   Electricity is conducted through wires or cables, which is why maintaining safe, functional wiring is a key part of what a residential or commercial electrician will work on. Electricians can wire entire buildings, or simply rewire a part of an existing installation that's become worn or which needs altering or updating, as the building use changes. Wiring needs to conform to a large number of regulations in order to operate safely, which is why it's usually a job that's best left to the professionals.

7. Install security lighting and alarms

   CCTV cameras, intruder alarms, automatic gates and motion sensors are all powered by electricity. This means that electrical contractors are needed to design, install and maintain commercial and residential security systems. An electrician who specialises in security will be able to suggest a set-up that's appropriate for your needs, as well as source the relevant components and ensure they're fitted correctly. Electricians are able to fit both exterior and interior security measures, resulting in adequate protection for your stock, family, possessions and/or property.

8. Power points

   The number of electrical appliances which Australians run simultaneously in their home has continued to grow as time has gone on. This puts increasing strain on existing power points. It can also potentially compromise safety, with overloaded sockets and extension leads a frequent consequence. An electrician can install fresh power points exactly where you need them. Ideal when you have a static appliance that needs a power source (for example a washing machine), power points can also be installed wherever required. If you have an out building, shed or workshop, electricians can also provide power points that are suitable for challenging conditions, or located conveniently for specialist machinery - for example, power points located high on the wall, or isolated power points for a cooker.

9. Install back-up generators

   There are some locations where a reliable power supply is absolutely essential. From hospitals and care homes through to industries where electrical equipment is critical to production, if your enterprise needs to have power 24/7/365, a back-up generator is a sensible option. Electricians can provide recommendations on appropriate models, as well as complete installation, testing and on-going maintenance.

10. Install solar power systems

    Solar power has the potential to save homeowners hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars each year. If you're considering installing solar panels, or upgrading your existing installation, an electrician is the person to call! Electricians can install fresh panels (including designing a system that optimises power capture), as well as repair and service existing panels and solar power infrastructure. Panel efficiency does decline over time, so a periodic check on output can help to highlight any repairs or replacements that are needed to increase the amount of electricity generated.

Types of Electricians in Australia

1. Residential Electricians

   The type of electrician that most homeowners are familiar with, if you call out emergency electricians, it's likely a residential electrician will attend. As the name suggests, residential electricians are specialists in electrical work carried out in domestic homes. Whether you need a complete re-wire, the installation of an electrical appliance, a new light fitting, fresh power points, a security system or a fault correcting, residential electricians are the tradespeople to call.

2. Commercial Electricians

   Commercial electricians provide the same type of services as residential electricians, but primarily work on commercial premises. The regulations which govern commercial electrical installations are different to those for residential properties: a commercial electrician will have the specialist knowledge required to ensure compliance. In addition, they are normally experienced in working on commercial appliances: if you've got a problem with your walk-in freezer, for example, or large-scale cooling system, a commercial electrician is normally best placed to help.

3. Construction Electricians

   Construction electricians primarily work on new-build homes, offices and industrial structures, completing the wiring and electrical installations for an entire property. Their role is primarily one of installation and testing: construction electricians have an excellent knowledge of the right materials and configurations needed to ensure wiring is legal and safe. Wiring a complete structure is a complex task: construction engineers are extremely skilled professionals!

4. Specialist Electricians

   Some electricians choose to specialise in a particular type of installation. This may include anything from auto electrics through to A/C electrical faults, boiler faults, boat engines, heating systems, lighting, or security systems. In some cases, an electrician will have particular knowledge of a system or appliance. If you have a specialist job that needs completing, an electrician with expertise in that particular field is probably best placed to help. Specialist electricians may have expertise in products or systems from particular manufacturers, making them the go to choice if your electrical installation is from a brand they have knowledge of.

5. Emergency Electricians

   You never know when an electrical emergency will arise, which is why emergency electricians are on hand 24/7/365. In most cases, customers need local electricians, who can be on hand quickly to deal with whatever emergency has cropped up. Some specialist electricians will be prepared to travel a longer distance in order to attend an emergency if it relates to their area of expertise. An electrician near me will be able to make a fault safe, even if a later visit is required to fix the problem. Common electrical emergencies include: a power point that's become overloaded - there may be a black or brownish ring around the socket, as well as sparks, a smell of burning or a power disruption which causes the mains switch to trip; an electrical problem that doesn't go away - for example a light that flickers every time you switch it on; a faulty breaker box - usually, an electrical fault anywhere on the relevant circuit will cause the mains switch to trip - if this doesn't happen, you could be at risk. If your mains box is humming or making some other odd noise, call an electrician; a power blackout which isn't down to a problem with your electrical supplier. Some emergencies may also be down to the nature of the failure: the breakdown of a hospital generator, for example, or failure of an industrial electrical installation, may mean that urgent attention is needed to resolve the problem.

6. Master electricians

   If you want experienced, highly qualified electricians who you can trust to get your electrical work completed safely, master electricians are the solution. A master electrician is one who is a member of the Master Electricians Australia (MEA) trade body. To become an MEA member, electricians need to demonstrate excellence in their chosen field. This includes not only having the relevant skills and experience to complete electrical work to a high standard, but also possessing the right ethics and commitment to doing the best job they can at all times. Members need:
   

   • To have at least three years of experience.
   • To provide evidence that they operate a safety management system whilst at work.
   • To give a one-year guarantee on any work which they complete.
   • To provide appropriate energy efficiency advice.
   • To regularly have their working practices assessed in order to retain their MEA status.

   
   If you want the services of a master electrician, look for the MEA logo on their website or other contact information.

FAQ About Electricians in Australia

1. How much does it cost to hire an electrician?

   The short answer to this question is that it depends! There are a number of variables which can affect cost. These include:
   

   • Location.
   • Whether the call is an emergency one - out-of-hours visits often include a call-out charge.
   • What type of work is required.
   • The cost of parts or materials.
   • How quickly the work needs to be done.
   • Individual overheads.
   • The skills and experience of the electrician - you may pay slightly more for a highly experienced contractor, or one with specialist knowledge or electricians tools, for example.

   
   A good contractor will always make you aware of any call-out charges and hourly rates before attending. Once on site, they will usually provide a no-obligation quote to fix the problem.
   
   Considering the above factors, you can expect to pay at least $80 an hour on average in Australia for an electrician.
   
   For non-urgent work, particularly if it's a larger job, you may wish to obtain quotes from three or so electricians near me, in order to find the best price.

2. How to find the best electrician near me

   Whilst there is some variation in the priorities customers have when it comes to their electrician, the key characteristics of a good electrician include:
   

   • Evidence that they have the skills and experience to do the job safely and correctly. Each state has licensing requirements, which electricians need to satisfy before they can work legally. The easiest way to check certification is to perform a quick search online. Experienced electricians will most likely also have MEA status.
   • Testimonials or customer reviews. It's easy enough to find reviews on social media - these can provide a good idea of what to expect. Some electricians also feature reviews on their site.
   • Check if the company is listed under check-a-trade or a similar body. Licenses and legitimacy are checked as part of the registration process.
   • Recommendations from family, friends and work colleagues.

   
   

   Check qualifications of electricians

   
   As indicated earlier, electricians need to be licensed by the state before they can complete work legally. Each state has a database where you can check the registration of your chosen electrician. Their license number should be on their website or other contact information. This number can be used to search on a site such as licensedtrades.com.au to check legitimacy. It's worth remembering that each state has its own set of licensing requirements - check that your chosen electrician has the certification necessary to do the work you need.
   
   

   Compare local electricians reviews

   
   When you look for an electrician near me, taking a look at their reviews is always helpful. Many customers leave detailed reviews that give a clear picture of the type of service you're likely to receive. When comparing reviews, it's helpful to take note of the following points:
   

   • Check the date of the reviews: more modern reviews are likely to give a more accurate picture than those obtained a year or more ago.
   • See what the response was if a customer identified a problem. Inevitably problems do occur, but an appropriate response to a situation indicates tradespeople who are committed to doing the best job they can.
   • Check what work the reviewer had carried out. Good reviews of work that is similar to what you need doing are always a positive sign.
   • Check the location of the reviewers: ideally, they should be from your local area.
   • Check any comments on pricing: reviewers will usually give a judgement on whether the pricing was fair. Remember, cheapest isn't always best. A fair price for a good job well done is the sort of review that indicates a company worth considering.

   
   

   Compare electricians quotes

   
   Looking for a cheap electrician near you? One of the easiest ways to ensure you get best value from your electrician is to request a quote before going ahead with the work. Most electricians will provide a FREE quote for work. For non-urgent jobs, it's usually helpful to get three or more quotes from your shortlist of electricians. A quote should contain details of what work will be completed, as well as the costs for each bit of it. In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate on the price by purchasing fittings from a more economical source, for example. It's worth noting that if a price is much cheaper than the others, there may be a hidden cost that hasn't been noted - if it looks too good to be true, then it probably is!