Older homes across Perth each have their own history. Some have been fully upgraded over the years, while others still rely on wiring, earthing and protection devices installed decades ago. When electrical systems age or have not been checked for a long time, the chance of hidden faults increases.
This does not mean every older home is unsafe. It simply means certain components are more likely to show deterioration or outdated safety features. The only way to know the true condition of your home is through a licensed residential electrician’s inspection.
10 Common Electrical Risks We See in Perth & Australian Homes
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1. Ageing or Deteriorated Wiring
Some older Perth homes still contain wiring made with rubber, cloth or early PVC insulation. These materials break down over time from heat, movement or age.
When insulation weakens, wiring is more vulnerable to faults that can lead to arcing or overheating.
- Risk and danger: Increased chance of fire or exposure to live conductors.
- What to do: Have a licensed electrician inspect your wiring. Rewiring or partial rewiring may be recommended.
2. Old Switchboards With Ceramic Fuses
Older fuse-style switchboards were designed for lower electrical loads and do not provide the same level of protection as modern circuit breakers and RCDs.
If a switchboard has never been upgraded, it may not trip as quickly or reliably during a fault.
- Risk and danger: Higher fire and shock risk if faults are not disconnected fast enough.
- What to do: Arrange a switchboard upgrade by a licensed electrician.
3. Missing or Limited RCD Protection
RCDs turn off power within milliseconds during an earth fault. Many older homes have only one RCD, partial coverage or none at all.
While WA requires RCDs when selling, renting or completing certain electrical work, older homes may not have them installed unless an upgrade has been done.
- Risk and danger: Reduced protection against electric shock during insulation or appliance faults.
- What to do: Have RCDs installed on all lighting and power circuits by a licensed electrician.
Further WA RCD information: https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy/residual-current-devices-rcds
4. Poor or Corroded Earthing
Earthing systems can corrode or become less effective over decades, especially in older homes where they may not have been replaced.
If the earthing is weak, safety devices may not operate correctly during a fault.
- Risk and danger: Appliances, taps or fixtures can become live if an electrical fault occurs.
- What to do: Book a professional earthing system test and upgrade if necessary.
5. Circuits Overloaded by Modern Appliances
Homes built decades ago were wired when households used far fewer appliances. Today’s heating, cooling, cooking and entertainment devices are far more demanding.
Older circuits may overheat or trip when overloaded, especially if the wiring is ageing.
- Risk and danger: Excess heat build-up inside walls or roof spaces and repeated tripping.
- What to do: Have an electrician assess load requirements and add circuits where needed.
6. Loose or Worn Powerpoints and Switches
Fittings in older homes can loosen, crack or degrade due to age or wear. Loose internal contacts can create hot spots or small arcs.
These issues often develop slowly and may not be visible until a fault occurs.
- Risk and danger: Overheating at the outlet or increased fire risk behind the wall.
- What to do: Have any loose, cracked, discoloured or warm outlets replaced by a licensed electrician.
7. Aluminium Wiring in Some Older Properties
Some homes built in specific periods may contain aluminium wiring. It expands, contracts and oxidises more than copper.
This movement can loosen connections over time, particularly at terminals.
- Risk and danger: Loose aluminium joints may overheat and increase fire risk.
- What to do: Have an electrician inspect and maintain aluminium wiring. Some homes may need connection treatments or replacement.
8. DIY or Non-Compliant Electrical Work
Older homes sometimes contain wiring added during past renovations or shed extensions without a licensed electrician. These installations may not meet current safety standards. Faults often remain hidden and may go undetected for years.
- Risk and danger: Exposed conductors, incorrect joins and overloaded circuits.
- What to do: Have a licensed electrician inspect and correct any non-compliant wiring.
9. Old Light Fittings and Ceiling Roses
Original light fittings and ceiling roses can loosen or deteriorate with age. Heat from lamps and years of use contribute to wear inside the fitting.
When internal terminals or insulation weaken, they can cause flickering or heat build-up.
- Risk and danger: Overheating and increased potential for ignition of dust or surrounding insulation.
- What to do: Have older fittings replaced with modern, compliant lighting by a licensed electrician.
10. Hidden or Inaccessible Junction Boxes
During renovations, some junction boxes may end up behind ceilings or walls. If a connection inside loosens, it becomes difficult to detect.
Hidden faults can cause tripping or overheating without obvious signs.
- Risk and danger: Localised heat build-up and intermittent electrical issues.
- What to do: Have an electrician trace the affected circuit and ensure all junctions are accessible and compliant.
Should You Be Concerned
Not all older homes will show these issues. Many have had upgrades or rewiring completed over the years. The only reliable way to know is through an inspection.
If your home has not been checked in a long time, identifying risks early helps prevent faults or failures.
For more information, you can refer to the official WA guidance on keeping electrical systems safe by Building and Energy WA: https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy/electrical-safety-home
A Note on DIY Electrical Work in WA
In Western Australia, homeowners are legally restricted from doing most types of electrical work. Only licensed electricians are permitted to repair wiring, replace powerpoints, alter circuits or install new electrical fixtures.
Attempting electrical work without a licence can create safety risks because faults may not be visible or may not meet required standards.
If you would like clear guidance on what can and cannot be done legally, read our full article here:
DIY Electrical Work. What You Can and Cannot Do in WA
How We Can Help
We work on older Perth homes regularly and understand where electrical problems most commonly appear. Our licensed Perth residential electricians can check your wiring, RCDs, earthing, switchboard and fittings to ensure everything is safe and compliant. If we find any concerns, we explain your options clearly and provide upfront pricing.
We provide a complimentary free electrical safety check for every service, giving you peace of mind about your home. If you would like your older home assessed, contact us today to book your inspection.
