The short version
Rough-in is the first electrical stage. The electrician runs cables through the frame and sets up the boxes for power points, switches and lights, before the walls are lined.
Fit-off is the last stage. After the walls are lined and finished, the electrician installs the power points, switches, light fittings and appliance connections, completes the switchboard and tests everything.
Rough-in: what actually happens
The electrician works from the electrical plan. They run cable through the frame to every point, fit the boxes the points will sit in, and install the cabling for things like smoke alarms, data, air conditioning and the oven.
- Cabling for power, lighting and appliances
- Boxes and mounting for points, switches and lights
- Cabling back to the switchboard location
- Allowance for extras like data, an EV charger, solar or a pool
It happens after the frame is up and before the walls are lined, usually before insulation as well. Once the walls are lined the cables are hidden, which is why changes after this are harder and cost more.
Fit-off: what actually happens
Fit-off happens near the end of the build, after the walls are lined and, in most builds, painted. The electrician comes back to install what the cables were run for.
- Power points and switches
- Light fittings, downlights and ceiling fans
- Appliance connections, like the oven, cooktop and hot water
- The finished switchboard, with circuits labelled
Finally the electrician tests the installation. They should be able to tell you what was tested and what paperwork you’ll get. See our guide to electrical paperwork after a job.
What to decide before rough-in
Rough-in is the point of no return. Before it, walk the plan room by room and decide:
- Where every power point and switch goes. Think about where the bed, couch, desk and TV will actually sit.
- How many power points you need. If in doubt, ask for more than the plan shows.
- Whether you want downlights, pendants or both, and where the switches go.
- Outdoor power and lighting for the patio, garden, driveway and shed.
- Where the air conditioning units and ceiling fans will sit.
- Future needs: an EV charger, solar and battery, a pool or a granny flat.
- Data and TV points.
Questions to ask your electrician
- Can I walk through the plan with you before rough-in?
- What does the quote include, and what would be a variation?
- When will rough-in and fit-off happen in the build?
- What testing will be done, and what paperwork will I get at the end?
- What is your licence number?
Who does the work
Electrical work in NSW must be done by a licensed electrician. If your builder uses their own electrician, you may still be able to go through where things go with them. If you’re managing the build yourself, or free to choose, send an enquiry early and we’ll pass it to an electrician who can quote it. See new home electrical and new homes in Shell Cove, Calderwood and Tullimbar.
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.