Project Information
Main Switchboard Relocation and Compliance Upgrade for Sydney Residence
Scott Electrics recently completed a critical switchboard relocation and upgrade project for a residential property in Sydney. This project addressed significant safety hazards, brought the property into full compliance with Australian Standards, and ensured the electrical infrastructure was ready for future energy needs.
Project Overview
The existing main switchboard was located awkwardly above the front door, positioned at a height of over 2 metres—making it difficult to access and non-compliant with current regulations. It also contained hazardous materials such as asbestos and combustible linings, posing a serious safety risk.
The client’s request was to relocate the main switchboard to a more suitable and accessible location, either to the left-hand side of the house or adjacent to the front porch, and bring all components up to modern standards.
Key Issues Identified
- Non-compliant switchboard height – located over 2 metres above ground level.
- Presence of asbestos and combustible materials – requiring certified removal and disposal.
- Outdated sub-circuit protection – ceramic fuses and push-in breakers posed both safety and reliability concerns.
- Missing earth stake and undersized water pipe bond – critical earthing issues that compromised safety.
- Inadequate consumer mains – The consumer mains running the houses load was undersized and poorly insulated requiring an upgrade to support safe and reliable future supply.
Solutions Delivered
- Relocated Main Switchboard: Installed a new galvanised surface-mounted switchboard in a more accessible and regulation-compliant position.
- Safe Removal of Asbestos & Combustibles: All hazardous materials were carefully removed and replaced with safe, compliant components following Australian regulations.
- Re-routed Final Sub-Circuits: All existing circuits—including power, lighting, oven, and others—were extended to the new switchboard location.
- Upgraded Circuit Protection: Outdated ceramic fuses and old-style breakers were replaced with modern RCBOs (Residual Current Breakers with Overcurrent Protection), ensuring individual safety switching for every circuit.
- Installed Main Circuit Breaker: A current-limiting main switch was fitted to protect the entire installation.
- Earthing System Upgrade: A new earth stake was installed and the water pipe equipotential bond was upgraded to meet current safety standards.
- New Consumer Mains: Installed new single-phase 16mm² XLPE consumer mains from the existing point of attachment to the new switchboard to allow for future upgrades and load increases.
- Level 2 ASP Works:
1] Disconnect/reconnect the aerial supply.
2] Supply and installation of a new single-phase smart meter.
3] Management of Ausgrid NOSW application and associated fees.
Final Outcome
This upgrade significantly improved the property’s electrical safety, accessibility, and regulatory compliance. The new switchboard setup offers:
For homeowners looking to upgrade their main switchboard—especially if it’s outdated, poorly located, or contains hazardous materials—this project is a strong example of how a thorough and professional solution can enhance both safety and functionality.
Need Electrical Work Like This?
Facing an electrical defect or looking for a full-service upgrade in Sydney’s North Shore?
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