What is a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work?
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Written by Tristan Cameron
Table of Contents
A certificate of compliance for electrical work is an official document issued by the electrician who performs the work. It’s a legal requirement for this to be provided.
You may have never heard of it or have been handed one but weren’t given the reason why.
We’re going to clear up any confusion right now. We’ll get into what it is, who issues it and when, who needs a copy, and why.
What is an Electrical Certificate of Compliance?
A certificate of compliance for electrical work (CCEW) is a document that records that the electrical work was performed correctly and in accordance with government standards and regulations. The certificate is valid for five years.
The CCEW records the electrical work performed and is quite a detailed document. Apart from listing the date, the name of the electrician, and the location of the work performed, the certificate also includes the following:
- Full details of the electrician, including the company and their licences
- The type of work, including any special conditions
- The equipment installed and the estimated increase affected by the work carried out
- Whether meters were installed or removed and their readings before and after the job
- Details of the tester, if different to the electrician
- The electricity provider’s details
When is a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work Issued?
Only qualified professionals should attempt electrical work, as it’s highly dangerous. The CCEW confirms that the work was done safely and correctly.
A certificate will be issued after any of the following:
- Electrical work of any kind is performed
- As a result of an electrical safety inspection
- Any form of new installation, from an appliance to a complete home rewiring
- Additions or alterations made to existing electrical systems, including any made during new installation work
- Any work done on the switchboard, including an upgrade or installation of safety switches or circuit breakers
- Installation of a new power supply, underground cables, or a power pole
- Electricity meter work, including installation, repairs or relocation
The EECW can be written manually or completed online, and an electronic copy can be made available to send to the required persons.
Who Gets a Copy of an Electrical Certificate of Compliance?
A copy of the EECW is given to numerous people and agencies, depending on the scope of work completed. The customer, the electrical provider and NSW Fair Trading may get a copy. The certificate must be made available by the electrician within seven days.
Here’s a straightforward breakdown:
| Type of Work | Who Gets the EECW |
| Any electrical work | Customer |
| New electrical installation | Customer, electricity provider, NSW Fair Trading |
| Alterations and additions to existing electrical systems | Customer, electricity provider, NSW Fair Trading |
| A new power system is installed | Customer, NSW Fair Trading |
| Jobs completed on the switchboard – including an upgrade | Customer, electricity provider, NSW Fair Trading |
| Work carried out on the electricity meter | Customer, NSW Fair Trading |
What Happens if a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work isn’t Issued?
Not issuing a CCEW could land the electrician in serious trouble. An on-the-spot fine of $1000 can be charged. Hefty fines of up to $550,000 can follow.
The obligation to have the certificate issued is on the electrician performing the work, not on you, the property owner.
At North Shore Electricians, we always issue certificates of compliance for electrical work; for us, it’s non-negotiable. We pride ourselves on following NSW state government regulations and recognise this document’s importance.
You will never need to ask us for the CCEW as it’s part of our checklist to ensure it’s completed when any type of electricity work is finished.
Frequently Asked Questions About an Electrical Certificate of Compliance?
Is a CCEW required for minor electrical repairs or installations?
Yes. Any form of electrical work performed on your property must have a CCEW issued. This confirms the work was performed correctly, by a professional, and in accordance with NSW Government regulations.
How much does it cost to have the certificate issued?
The CCEW is a legal requirement, and there is no charge to the consumer for this to be issued. If any electrical provider requests a fee for this service, you can report them to NSW Fair Trading.
Can a CCEW be issued for DIY electrical work?
Electrical work is dangerous, and one of the reasons for the CCEW is to confirm that it was performed safely and correctly by a licensed electrician. A DIYer should never attempt electrical work and will breach government and home insurance regulations if they do so.