What Is an Electrical Defect Notice?

An electrical defect notice is a formal warning from your network provider, such as Ausgrid or Endeavour Energy, that your property has electrical work that does not meet current safety standards. The provider issues these notices to keep the electricity network safe and reliable for everyone.

In many cases, a defect notice does not mean your property is unsafe to occupy. It simply means you must correct the issue before your power supply can remain connected. This helps prevent fires, shocks, and other electrical hazards. You can read more about the official rules on the NSW Electrical Compliance Requirements page.

Because these rules protect the community, network providers are legally required to act quickly. If you ignore the notice, they may disconnect your power supply until you fix the problem.

Only a Level 2 ASP electrician can perform the required repairs and provide a Certificate of Compliance (CCEW).

Common Reasons for Defect Notices

The most common reasons for defect notices include:

• Damaged or deteriorated consumer mains
• Unsafe or outdated switchboards
• Low overhead service lines
• Defective private power poles or attachments
• Non-compliant metering installations

Network providers issue defect notices for many reasons. Old or damaged electrical equipment often triggers them because it no longer meets modern safety standards. For example, deteriorated overhead private power poles, frayed consumer mains, or cracked insulation can all pose serious risks.

Unlicensed or uncertified electrical work is another major cause. Only licensed electricians can perform electrical work in NSW, and they must certify their work using a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work (CCEW). If work has been done without this certificate, the network provider may require it to be inspected, repaired, and certified before allowing the connection to remain.

Therefore, it is vital to always use a licensed Level 2 ASP electrician for any work involving the network connection, metering, or mains. Doing so reduces the risk of receiving a defect notice in the future.

The Step-by-Step Process to Fix a Defect Notice

Once you receive a defect notice, take action immediately. Here is what usually happens:

1. Contact a Level 2 ASP electrician
   Book an inspection as soon as possible. The electrician will visit your property, assess the defect, and explain what needs to be repaired.

2. Approve the repair work
   After the inspection, the electrician will give you a quote. If you approve it, they will complete the repairs according to Australian Standards.

3. Submit the CCEW
   When the repairs are done, your electrician submits a completed CCEW to the network provider. You can view the official CCEW form on the NSW Government website.

4. Network provider clears the notice
   After reviewing the CCEW, the provider clears the notice. Your property stays connected to the electricity network.

Acting quickly is important. Providers usually allow only 21 days to fix the defect. If the deadline passes, they may disconnect your power for safety reasons. You can read Ausgrid’s official process on their electrical installation defects page.

Why Choose Selectrical for Defect Notice Repairs

• Sydney-wide service quick response in all suburbs
• ASP-accredited Level 2 electricians with full compliance knowledge
• Transparent pricing no hidden costs
• Workmanship guarantee for lasting safety

What Happens if You Ignore a Defect Notice

If you do not resolve the defect notice within the given timeframe, your electricity provider can legally disconnect your supply. This is not a punishment. It is a safety measure to protect the network and the public. However, it can create major disruption for your home or business.

In some cases, leaving the issue unresolved can also void your insurance if an electrical fault causes damage. Therefore, it is always better to handle the problem as soon as possible rather than risk costly downtime and repairs.

FAQs

How long do I have to fix the defect?
Usually, you have 21 days. Check the notice for the exact deadline.

Who can repair the defect?
Only a licensed Level 2 ASP electrician can repair defects involving network connections, meters, or mains.

Can I continue using power while repairs are done?
Yes, but only until the deadline. After that, your provider may disconnect the power.

What if I ignore the defect notice?
Your provider may disconnect your electricity supply. Read more about this on Ausgrid’s electrical installation defects page.

How much will it cost to repair a defect?
Costs vary depending on the fault. Ask your electrician for a written quote.

How do I prove the work was done?
Your electrician will submit a CCEW to your provider as proof.

Final Advice

Receiving a defect notice can be stressful, but it is a normal part of maintaining a safe electrical system. If you are unsure what the notice means, call your energy provider for clarification. They can explain why the defect was issued and what steps you need to take to have it cleared.

You can also ask your electrician to guide you through the process. A good electrician will explain the issue clearly, show you what needs to be repaired, and give you a clear quote before starting the work. This approach helps you feel confident that your property will remain safe, compliant, and connected.

Learn more about our emergency Level 2 electrician near you services.