Why the paperwork matters
Paperwork is your proof that the work was done by a licensed electrician and meets the rules. It’s useful when you sell the house, make an insurance claim, or need to show a landlord, agent or builder what was done.
The compliance certificate
In NSW, licensed electricians are required to complete a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work (CCEW) for most electrical wiring work, and to give the customer a copy. Ask your electrician which certificate applies to your job, and when you’ll receive it.
What else to ask for
- A tax invoice that shows the electrician’s business details and licence number.
- Test results, where relevant, for example after a switchboard upgrade.
- Warranty details for the workmanship, and for any fittings or appliances supplied.
- Manuals and instructions for anything installed.
- A labelled switchboard, so you know what each switch controls.
For a new build, ask your builder what electrical compliance paperwork is included in the handover.
Check the licence
Ask for the electrician’s licence number, and check it using the NSW Government licence check. Do it before the work starts, not after.
Keep it
Keep electrical paperwork with your house records, for example a folder or a photo on your phone. Related reading: rough-in vs fit-off and renovation electrical.
General information only. Rules and requirements can change, and what applies depends on your home and the work. A licensed electrician, or NSW Fair Trading, can confirm what applies to you.