Electrical problems often develop quietly; inside walls, ceilings, roof spaces, and switchboards.
A professional electrical safety inspection helps identify issues early, long before they cause fires, shocks, outages, or expensive damage.

Here’s exactly what a licensed electrician typically checks during a full safety inspection.

1. Switchboard Condition & Safety Check

The inspection almost always begins at the switchboard.

An electrician will look for:

• RCDs (safety switches)

• Modern circuit breakers

• Old ceramic fuses

• Overloaded circuits

• Loose wiring

• Evidence of heat damage

• Correct earthing connections

• Possible asbestos panels (in older switchboards)

• Surge protection (if installed)

This determines whether your home’s electrical system meets modern standards.

2. RCD (Safety Switch) Testing

Safety switches are designed to stop electrocution in a fraction of a second.

During the inspection, the electrician will:

• Perform a manual trip test

• Check response time

• Confirm RCDs are installed on all required circuits

• Ensure they reset correctly

If an RCD fails or responds slowly, it must be repaired or replaced.

3. Wiring Condition Assessment (Roof Space, Walls, Underfloor)

Wiring naturally deteriorates over time. Especially in older Brisbane homes exposed to heat and humidity.

The wiring inspection may include checking for:

• Brittle or cracking insulation

• Overheating marks

• Rodent damage

• Exposed conductors

• Old VIR or cloth wiring

• Early 2000s PVC insulation breakdown

• Unsafe junctions or taped joins

• Loose terminations

Wiring issues are a major cause of house fires.

4. Power Point & Switch Safety Check

Faulty outlets and switches can cause arcing, overheating, and shock hazards.

Electricians often look for:

• Loose sockets

• Discolouration

• Burn marks

• Buzzing or crackling

• Cracked faceplates

• Incorrect earthing

• Heat damage

• Water exposure (especially outside)

Even one faulty outlet can be dangerous.

5. Circuit Load Testing

This checks whether your home’s electrical system can handle modern appliances.

An electrician may test circuits powering:

• Air conditioners

• Hot water systems

• Fridges & freezers

• Ovens

• Pool equipment

• Home theatres

• Chargers and electronics

This identifies overloaded circuits, which are common in older homes.

6. Earthing & Bonding Verification

Proper earthing protects you from electric shock and stabilises your electrical system.

The electrician will typically check:

• Earth stake condition

• Earth wire continuity

• Bonding on metal pipes or appliances (if relevant)

• Loose or corroded earth connections

Poor earthing is one of the most serious electrical hazards.

7. Outdoor Electrical System Check

Because Brisbane’s climate brings storms, rain, and humidity, outdoor areas need extra attention.

An inspection may include:

• Outdoor power points

• Weatherproof rating (IP ratings)

• UV damage

• Moisture or water entry

• Garden lighting cables

• Pool or spa equipment wiring

• Shed or garage circuits

Outdoor electrical faults are a major summer risk.

8. Solar Electrical Safety Check (If Applicable)

If the home has solar, an electrician may check:

• Inverter condition

• DC isolators

• Rooftop wiring

• Visible hot joints or burn marks

• Water ingress

• Shutdown procedure labels

This helps identify early signs of solar-related electrical issues.

9. Final Report, Findings & Recommendations

After the inspection, homeowners usually receive:

• A summary of findings

• Photos of hazards

• Notes on non-compliance

• Recommended repairs

• Recommended upgrades

• Safety priorities (urgent vs. future improvements)

This helps you understand what needs attention and why.

Final Word: Electrical Safety Inspections Prevent Major Problems

A professional electrical inspection helps detect issues that aren’t visible day-to-day, including:

• Shock hazards

• Fire risks

• Overloaded circuits

• Ageing wiring

• Faulty outlets

• Failing safety switches

• Outdoor electrical issues

Whether your home is older, renovated, or full of modern appliances, an inspection is one of the most effective ways to stay safe.