Australians planning household repairs and maintenance during the Easter holidays are urged to leave electrical work to the professionals.

NECA CEO, Suresh Manickam, reminds homeowners that it’s not worth jeopardising the investment they have made in their home – and potentially their content and building insurance, in order to save the modest cost of having the work done properly.

"Some homeowners who want to avoid the holiday crowds prefer to catch up with home improvements and repairs during the four-day break over Easter" says Mr Manickam.  “But even if you think you know what you are doing, never attempt to do your own electrical work.  It’s dangerous, illegal and can be fatal,” he added.

Jobs that are definitely not suitable for anyone other than a licensed electrician to carry out include:

• installing a new power point,
• replacing a light switch,
• replacing a batten holder with a new light fitting,
• altering the location of an existing power point,
• replacing a light fitting with a ceiling fan.

Homeowners are also advised not to carry out repairs to electrical equipment or appliances but to take them to a licensed electrician or authorised service agent.

"Major damage to your home from an electrical fire caused by unlicensed work is not only extremely risky but may also lead to an insurer refusing your claim.  So always get a licensed electrician to do any electrical work, and check first that they have a current licence,"

Mr Manickam advised.

To enquire about a licensed electrician near you, please go to www.neca.asn.au/content/consumers