Is Your Switchboard Due for an Upgrade?
If your home still has ceramic fuses, a bakelite switchboard, or a metal switchboard without safety switches (RCDs), it's not just outdated — it's a safety risk. Old switchboards can't handle the electrical demands of modern homes, and without safety switches, there's no protection against electrocution or electrical fires.
Randwick Electrical specialises in upgrading switchboards across Sydney's Eastern Suburbs. Many homes in Randwick, Coogee, Maroubra, and Bondi were built in the 1950s–1980s and still have original electrical boards that haven't been touched since.
Signs You Need a Switchboard Upgrade
- Ceramic fuses or rewireable fuses — these can't be reset and offer no RCD protection. They're a clear sign your board needs replacing
- Fuses blowing regularly — this usually means circuits are overloaded. Modern circuit breakers handle load more safely and can be easily reset
- No safety switches (RCDs) — NSW regulations require RCDs on power and lighting circuits. If you don't have them, you're unprotected
- Flickering lights or power fluctuations — loose connections in an old board can cause intermittent issues and create fire risk
- You're renovating or adding circuits — any renovation that adds electrical load should include a switchboard assessment
- Scorch marks or burning smell at the board — this is urgent. Call us immediately — overheating connections are a fire hazard
- You're installing solar, an EV charger, or air conditioning — high-draw additions often require a board upgrade to accommodate extra circuits
What Does a Switchboard Upgrade Include?
A full switchboard upgrade from Randwick Electrical includes:
- Removal of the old switchboard and all ceramic/rewireable fuses
- Installation of a new compliant switchboard enclosure
- Modern circuit breakers (MCBs) for every circuit
- Safety switches (RCDs) on all power and lighting circuits — as required by NSW regulations
- Proper circuit labelling so you know which breaker controls what
- Surge protection (optional but recommended) to protect electronics from power spikes
- Full testing and certification — including a Certificate of Compliance (CCEW) lodged with your energy provider
NSW Safety Switch Regulations
In New South Wales, safety switches (RCDs) are mandatory on all power circuits in new installations and when switchboards are upgraded. We also strongly recommend installing RCDs on lighting circuits — a requirement that's standard in most other Australian states and widely regarded as best practice.
If you sell or rent your property, the switchboard will be inspected. Having a modern, compliant board adds value and avoids issues at settlement.
Switchboard Upgrade Cost Guide
The cost of a switchboard upgrade depends on the size of your home, the number of circuits, and the condition of your existing wiring. As a general guide for Eastern Suburbs homes:
- Basic upgrade (small home/unit, 6-12 circuits): $900–$1,500
- Standard upgrade (3-bed home, 12-20 circuits): $1,500–$2,500
- Large upgrade (4+ bed, multiple sub-boards, older wiring): $2,500–$4,000+
We provide an exact quote after inspecting your current setup — no surprises.