Renovation Electrical Planning Guide (ACT Homes)
Planning a home renovation in Canberra? While it’s easy to get caught up in kitchens, flooring, or bathroom tiles, one of the most important parts of your project is electrical planning. Done right, it keeps your home safe, compliant with ACT regulations, and ready for the future. Done poorly, it can cause delays, unexpected costs, or even safety hazards.
This guide from It’s Lit Electrical explains what ACT homeowners should know before starting electrical work on their next renovation.
Why Electrical Planning Matters
Timing Matters: Avoid Rework & Delays
Electrical work is more than just adding a few extra power points. It involves wiring, safety upgrades, energy efficiency, and compliance with local laws. Planning ahead means you can:
- Coordinate with other trades before walls are closed.
- Upgrade your switchboard and wiring for today’s energy needs.
- Avoid rework and costly delays.
- Ensure your renovation passes inspections the first time.
And in the ACT, it’s not optional—all electrical work must be carried out by a licensed electrician under AS/NZS 3000 standards.
ACT Electrical Rules to Know
If you’re renovating in Canberra, here are some important requirements.
Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES)
Every job, big or small, needs a Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES). Your electrician must lodge this with Access Canberra within 14 days. Without it, you won’t get approval for occupancy.
Insulation Safety Inspections (iiESIR)
Adding ceiling or wall insulation? You’ll also need an Insulation Installation Electrical Safety Inspection Report (iiESIR) to make sure insulation and wiring are safe together.
Inspections and Energisation
Evoenergy and Access Canberra may audit your project. Importantly, no system can be energised until it has passed inspection.
Energy Efficiency and the 6-Star Rule
In the ACT, renovations are tied to energy efficiency requirements. Most homes must reach at least a 6-star NatHERS rating. That means electrical planning goes hand-in-hand with sustainable design.
From 2023, Canberra homes must also be all-electric—new gas connections are no longer allowed. Renovations are a great time to plan for:
- Induction cooktops
- Heat-pump hot water systems
- Reverse-cycle heating/cooling
Future-Proofing Your Renovation
Beyond compliance, a renovation is your chance to get ahead:
- Upgrade your switchboard for more circuits.
- Add extra outlets in kitchens, studies, or outdoor areas.
- Pre-wire for future additions like air conditioning or smart home features.
At It’s Lit Electrical, we always recommend a walk-through before work starts—so switches, outlets, and circuits are exactly where you’ll need them.
Step-by-Step Electrical Renovation Checklist
- Plan Early
– Engage a licensed electrician and check if approvals are required.
- During Works – Schedule inspections and coordinate with builders and other trades.
- After Completion – Confirm your CES has been submitted and your system approved before re-energising.
Final Thoughts
Electrical planning may not be the most glamorous part of a renovation, but it’s one of the most important. With the ACT moving towards an all-electric future, the right planning ensures your home is safe, compliant, and ready for what’s next.
At It’s Lit Electrical, we help Canberra homeowners design and complete electrical renovations that tick all the boxes—safety, compliance, and modern convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Certificate of Electrical Safety in Canberra?
Yes, for all electrical work. Your licensed electrician must issue and lodge it.
What’s an iiESIR?
It’s an Insulation Installation Electrical Safety Inspection Report—required when adding ceiling or wall insulation.
Can I add gas appliances during a renovation?
No. From late 2023, new gas connections are banned in the ACT.
Do renovations need an energy rating?
Yes, most projects need to meet a 6-star rating or alternative compliance path.
