Why use a registered electrical worker
Electrical work in your home should be done by someone who is registered and licensed to do that work.
Before you hire an electrical worker, ask to see their licence ID and check the Electrical Workers Public Register to confirm they are currently licensed and working legitimately.
Search the Electrical Workers Public Register(external link)
This quick check helps protect your safety, your home, and your peace of mind by making sure the person doing the work is competent and legally able to carry it out.
Watch the video below to learn what to look for before electrical work begins.
View transcript
Wide shot of the narrator walking along a street and speaking directly to the camera, followed by a closer shot of him.
“What people don’t always realise is electrical work can look fine on the surface, even when there’s a serious problem behind it”.
A man stands on a ladder and changes an outdoor light on a house.
"The switch works. The light comes on. Everything might seem fine”.
An electrical worker uses a screwdriver while installing an electric vehicle charger. Another electrical worker holds an uninstalled cooktop while preparing to install it.
A series of progressively closer shots shows the narrator speaking directly to the camera.
“But if the job wasn’t done by a properly licensed electrical worker, the real risk can stay hidden until it causes electric shock, fire, or serious damage to your home, or problems later if you need to make an insurance claim.
That’s why, before you contract anyone to do electrical work at your home, you should check they’re properly licensed”.
Close-up shots show a man working on wires hanging from a ceiling, then a hand working on wiring inside a ceiling opening. Another man screws a light bulb into a ceiling fitting, and the light turns on.
The narrator uses a laptop to search the electrical workers’ public register. Several views of the register appear on screen.
“You can ask for a copy of their digital licence, or you can find all licensed electrical workers on the public register on the EWRB website. You can search by name or registration number”.
The narrator speaks directly to the camera.
“It’s a simple step that helps you confirm the person is currently competent and lawfully able to do electrical work safely. Always ask for their licence and check it before you regret it!”
The narrator speaks directly to the camera as he walks out of frame, gesturing downwards with his left arm for emphasis.
“Make sure the work is done right from the start”.
The EWRB logo and website address appear in the centre of the screen.
What kind of work requires a registered electrical worker
Only registered and licensed electrical workers can carry out or supervise prescribed electrical work (PEW).
PEW refers to specific types of electrical work that are regulated under the Electricity Act 1992 and the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010. It includes tasks such as:
- installing, maintaining, and testing electrical fittings
- working on electrical installations and appliances
- restoring power after a fault.
These requirements help make sure electrical work is done safely and by people with the right skills, training, and qualifications.
More information
For more resources to help you if you are using a registered electrical worker visit: