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Safety

Signs Your House Needs Rewiring

Written by Senior Electrician
Updated: Nov 2026

Electrical wiring deteriorates over time. Homes built before the 1990s often have wiring that cannot handle modern electrical loads safely.

Important Safety Warning

Rewiring a house is a major safety requirement. Dodgy wiring is a leading cause of house fires. Do not delay if you see these signs.

Common Signs & Symptoms

  • Flickering or dimming lights when appliances turn on
  • Frequent blown fuses or tripped breakers
  • Slight electric shocks from switches or appliances
  • Burning smells near power points or the switchboard

Potential Causes

Why is this happening? Here are the most common reasons we see in WA homes:

  • Old rubber or cloth-insulated wiring degrading
  • Overloaded circuits not designed for modern appliances
  • Deteriorating switchboard components
  • Rodent damage in the roof cavity

Troubleshooting Steps (DIY Safe)

  • 1
    Check the age of your property. If it's over 40 years old, it likely needs an assessment.
  • 2
    Look for black 'cotton' or 'rubber' covered cables in roof spaces (do not touch!).
  • 3
    Note if any power points look scorched, cracked, or are warm to the touch.
  • 4
    Book a comprehensive electrical safety inspection.

DIY vs Professional

In Western Australia, it is illegal to perform your own electrical work. While you can change a lightbulb or reset a switch, anything involving wiring or removing fittings must be done by a licensed electrician.

How we can help

If you haven't been able to resolve the issue with the steps above, it's time to call in the experts. Sparky Local carries the necessary diagnostic tools to identify the root cause quickly and safely.

Need a Professional?

Don't risk your safety. Our licensed electricians are available to assess and fix electrical issues properly.

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