Home Renovation Electrical Checklist: What You Need to Know Before You Start

Renovations are exciting, but they’re also where electrical problems most commonly arise. Whether you’re adding a bathroom, opening up a kitchen, or building an extension, here’s what to think about before the first wall comes down.

Get Your Electrician Involved Early

The most common — and most costly — mistake homeowners make is treating the electrician as a trade to call at the end. Electrical work needs to be planned from the start. Your electrician should be involved at design stage to plan circuit capacity, switchboard requirements, lighting layouts, and data cabling — not called in after the walls are already closed.

Switchboard Capacity

Adding new circuits for a kitchen, bathroom, or extension puts additional load on your switchboard. If your board is old, or already near capacity, a switchboard upgrade may be required before any new circuits can be added. This should be assessed and budgeted for early.

Mandatory Electrical Requirements in Renovations

Any electrical work in NSW must be carried out by a licensed electrician and a Certificate of Compliance issued on completion. In kitchens, dedicated circuits are required for large appliances (oven, dishwasher, refrigerator). In bathrooms, all power points must be RCD-protected and positioned at least 1.25m from the bath or shower. Outdoor areas require weatherproof fittings and RCD protection.

Plan Your Power Points Carefully

One of the most common complaints after a renovation is “not enough power points.” Think about how each room will actually be used. In the kitchen, plan for benchtop appliances, under-cabinet lighting, and a refrigerator. In bedrooms, consider beside lamps, phone charging, and entertainment. USB power points are a popular addition in modern renovations.

Don’t Forget Data and Connectivity

While walls are open, it’s the perfect time to run Cat6 ethernet cables to key locations — living areas, home office, TV points. Wireless is convenient but wired connectivity is faster and more reliable, especially for streaming and working from home.

Working with Your Builder

Your electrician and builder need to coordinate closely, particularly around rough-in stages (cables in walls before plastering) and final fitoff. Leenderts Electrical works alongside builders and project managers across the North Shore regularly. Call 0407 743 963 to discuss your project.