Home and business owners in North Queensland have been urged not to take shortcuts with electrical safety, even if the holiday season makes it more difficult to secure professional support.

Master Electricians Australia spokesman Chris Lehmann said 300 licensed local electrical contractors were currently working in North Queensland to help inspect an estimated 1000 flood-affected homes and businesses.

Mr Lehmann said the process of returning supply to affected homes would take time, and the upcoming holiday period may slow the process even further, but he urged home owners to put safety ahead of speed in reconnecting.

“We know from past experience that it can be frustrating for home owners to wait for an electrical contractor to come and test their affected connections and electrical appliances, but it’s critically important,” he said.

“Families and business owners in North Queensland have suffered a terrible tragedy, and we don’t need to add any further to that with electrical injuries or fatalities.

“So as frustrating as it can be to wait to have all affected appliances and electrical fittings tested, we urge everyone to be patient and make the safety of themselves and their loved ones their top priority.”

Master Electricians Australia has published a series of flood and electrical safety fact sheets on its website, including an outline of the process for reinstating power to a flooded building. These are available at https://masterelectricians.com.au/weather-crisis .

Mr Lehmann said Queensland regulations required a licensed contractor to check and test the electrical fittings in a flooded home or business and provide a Certificate of Test before power could be reconnected.

In many cases it will be a simple matter of testing by a licensed electrical contractor. In some cases, work will be required to replace damaged fittings or disconnect them.  Either way, the companies can’t turn the supply back on until home owners have taken all the required steps.

He said homeowners would be required to pay the electricians for performing the checks and any necessary repairs.  Some of those costs may be covered by home insurance.

Chris Lehmann is available for media interviews.  
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