A shared switchboard failure can cause property damage, personal injury and power loss across a complex. Regular inspections can reduce the risk of electrical failures, particularly in older properties.
Ask a qualified and licensed electrician to assess the switchboard and recommend an appropriate inspection frequency.
How often should a body corporate electrical switchboard be tested?
The right frequency depends on the switchboard’s age, condition, history of faults and the electrician’s advice. A switchboard that has not been inspected for some time, or one in an older property, may need closer attention.
Do not assume that every switchboard must be tested every 10 years. Insurance requirements can vary, so the committee should check the scheme’s current policy and ask the insurer or broker about any relevant conditions. Our body corporate insurance factsheet provides further information about body corporate insurance.
What does a switchboard inspection usually check?
The electrician should define the inspection scope and explain what the report covers. It may identify electrical safety issues, damage, dangerous conditions and recommended remedial work.
The electrician should assess the switchboard’s condition, including visible deterioration and signs that it may not be operating safely. The inspection is not automatically a complete assessment against every electrical standard, so technical questions should be directed to the licensed electrician.
Who is responsible for a shared switchboard in a body corporate?
Responsibility depends on the scheme’s survey plan, the boundaries of common property and the regulation module that applies. A body corporate must maintain common property in a good and structurally sound condition, while an owner generally maintains their own lot.
If the switchboard serves shared areas or multiple lots, ask the body corporate manager or electrician to help confirm whether it forms part of common property. You can also read our body corporate maintenance factsheet.
When should a body corporate arrange an urgent electrical inspection?
Seek urgent advice from a qualified electrician if there is burning, smoke, sparking, unusual heat, buzzing, repeated tripping, visible damage or a sudden loss of power. Do not open the switchboard or attempt electrical repairs yourself.
A short circuit can interrupt power to the complex and cause serious damage. Keep residents away from the affected area and contact a licensed electrician or emergency service when necessary.
Should a thermal imaging scan be included?
Thermal imaging may help an electrician identify heat patterns that are not obvious during a visual inspection. Ask whether it is suitable for your switchboard and whether it will add useful information to the report.
It should not replace the electrician’s full assessment, and costs vary between schemes.
How should a committee act on an electrician’s recommendations?
Ask for a written report that clearly separates urgent safety concerns from recommended maintenance or upgrades. The committee can then obtain project-specific quotes, consider funding and set priorities.
Keep the report, quotes and completed work records with the body corporate’s maintenance information.
Regular, qualified assessment helps committees manage shared switchboards safely, but the inspection frequency and scope should be based on the property and professional advice. If you need help coordinating the next step, contact StrataCare at reception@stratacare.com.au.
