At Uncommon Electricians, we regularly work with homeowners renovating older properties across Ipswich. One of the biggest renovation surprises? The electrical issues that emerge once work begins. In this article, we’ll walk you through the most common electrical problems you can expect when renovating an older Ipswich home, why they occur, and how a licensed electrician can address them safely and legally.
Why Older Ipswich Homes Need Special Electrical Attention
Many older Ipswich homes were built long before today’s electrical standards existed. At the time, homes typically had:
Very few power points
Minimal lighting circuits
No air conditioning
No high-load appliances
No safety switches
Modern households, on the other hand, rely heavily on electricity for comfort, productivity, and convenience. Renovating without upgrading the electrical system can quickly lead to safety risks, compliance issues, and unexpected costs.
Common Electrical Issues Found During Renovations
1. Outdated or Undersized Switchboards
One of the first issues we identify during renovations is an outdated switchboard. Older switchboards often:
Lack safety switches (RCDs)
Use ceramic fuses
Have limited circuit capacity
Are not compliant with current Queensland standards
Under Queensland electrical laws, switchboards must meet modern safety requirements when significant electrical work is carried out. A renovation is often the trigger for a mandatory upgrade.
2. Insufficient Power Points
Older homes were not designed for today’s appliance-heavy lifestyle. It’s common to find:
One or two power points per room
Power boards used extensively
Overloaded circuits
As part of a renovation, adding compliant power points and dedicated circuits is essential — and must be done by a licensed electrician.
3. Old or Degraded Wiring
Electrical wiring has a lifespan. In older Ipswich homes, we sometimes find:
Cloth-insulated wiring
Rubber or VIR cables
Wiring damaged by pests or moisture
Previous non-compliant repairs
While not all old wiring is immediately dangerous, it often does not meet modern standards and may need replacement to support new loads safely.
4. Poor Earthing Systems
Proper earthing is critical for electrical safety. Older homes may have:
Inadequate earthing
No earth connection at all
Non-compliant bonding
Without correct earthing, safety switches may not operate effectively, increasing the risk of electric shock.
5. Non-Compliant DIY or Past Work
Renovations frequently uncover:
DIY electrical modifications
Unlicensed work
Hidden junctions
Incorrect cable sizing
In Queensland, unlicensed electrical work is illegal. Any non-compliant work must be rectified before new electrical installations can proceed.
6. Lighting That Doesn’t Meet Current Standards
Older homes often feature lighting that:
Is poorly positioned
Lacks sufficient circuits
Does not meet wet-area requirements
Is incompatible with modern LED fittings
Renovations are the ideal time to redesign lighting layouts to improve functionality, safety, and energy efficiency.
How Renovations Trigger Electrical Compliance Requirements
In Queensland, renovations often mean electrical work must:
Comply fully with AS/NZS 3000
Include safety switches
Support increased electrical load
Be certified by a licensed electrician
Even if existing electrical systems were legal when installed, renovation work can require upgrades to meet current standards.
Why You Should Plan Electrical Work Early
Electrical planning should happen before walls are closed and finishes installed. Early planning allows:
Better power point placement
Proper circuit design
Future-proofing for solar, EVs, and air conditioning
Fewer costly changes later
At Uncommon Electricians, we work closely with homeowners and builders to ensure electrical work integrates seamlessly into renovation projects.
What Homeowners Should Not Do
Renovations can tempt homeowners to cut corners, but it’s important to remember:
DIY electrical work is illegal in Queensland
Temporary fixes often become permanent hazards
Non-compliant work can void insurance
Electrical issues discovered later cost more to fix
All electrical work must be performed by a licensed Queensland electrician.
Why Ipswich Renovators Choose Uncommon Electricians
Renovating an older home requires experience and attention to detail. Ipswich homeowners trust Uncommon Electricians because we:
Specialise in older homes and renovations
Understand Queensland compliance requirements
Communicate clearly throughout the project
Deliver neat, reliable workmanship
We help ensure your renovation is safe, compliant, and built to last.
Book an Electrical Assessment Before You Renovate
If you’re planning to renovate an older Ipswich home, the best place to start is with a professional electrical assessment.
We’ll help you avoid surprises, stay compliant, and get the most out of your renovation — the uncommon way.
Give us a call at 07 3074 9486 or book a service on our website.
