If you’ve ever had electrical work done, you might’ve received a Certificate of Compliance (CoC). But what exactly is it and when do you need one? Let’s break it down simply so you can understand how it fits within New Zealand’s electrical safety rules.
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What Is an Electrical Certificate of Compliance?
An Electrical Certificate of Compliance is a legal document issued by a registered electrician once electrical work is complete. It confirms the job was done safely and correctly by someone licensed under the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB).
The certificate proves the work meets New Zealand’s required safety and professional standards. You might also hear it referred to as an Electrical Safety Certificate. Together, these confirm your electrical work has been tested, approved, and is safe to use.
A CoC applies to major electrical installations such as wiring, switchboards, or fittings connected to the mains. Small jobs like replacing a bulb or plug don’t need one.
What’s in a Certificate of Compliance
A standard CoC includes:
- The electrician’s name, licence number, and business details
- A clear description of the work completed
- Confirmation that the installation meets AS/NZS 3000 safety standards and has been tested
Keep your CoC for at least seven years. It may be needed for insurance, inspections, or property sales, and it shows your work met all safety and professional standards at the time.
Why It Matters
A CoC isn’t just paperwork, it’s proof of legal compliance and safety. It shows that:
- The work was done legally by a qualified, registered electrician.
- The installation meets New Zealand’s electrical safety regulations.
- You have official documentation for insurance, council approval, or property sales.
For homes, commercial properties, and industrial sites, a CoC ensures your electrical installations are safe, reliable, and up to code.
When Do You Need a Certificate of Compliance?
You’ll need a CoC for any prescribed electrical work. Anything that can affect the safety or operation of your system.
That includes:
- Installing or upgrading wiring or switchboards
- Adding new power outlets or circuits
- Major renovations or electrical alterations
- Setting up new electrical installations in a building
- Any high-risk work covered under the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010
In short, if your electrician is working on fixed wiring or anything connected to the mains, a CoC is required for legal compliance.
Why Electrical Safety Regulations Exist
New Zealand’s electrical laws exist to protect people and property. Electricity is powerful, and when it’s installed incorrectly, it can lead to fires, electric shocks, or serious damage.
The Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010 make sure only qualified, licensed electricians perform electrical work. Every job must be tested and certified to meet safety standards, with the CoC providing written proof that the work was done safely and professionally.
These laws are enforced by the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB), which ensures electricians maintain their qualifications and follow high professional standards.
What the Law Says
Under NZ law:
- Regulation 65 of the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010 requires a CoC for all “general” and “high-risk” electrical work.
- Regulation 68 requires electricians to provide the certificate within 20 working days after completion.
In some cases, a licensed electrical inspector may also need to review the work before it’s signed off. This helps guarantee full legal compliance and safety.
How Grammar Electrical Can Help
At Grammar Electrical, we make electrical compliance simple. Every project from home wiring to industrial upgrades, comes with the correct certification and peace of mind.
We make sure:
- All work is carried out by electricians registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB)
- Every job is tested to meet safety standards and NZ regulations
- A licensed electrical inspector verifies complex installations when needed
- Your CoC is issued promptly and stored safely
We’ve been keeping Auckland homes, businesses, and industrial sites powered for over 70 years, always working to the highest professional standards.
Final Thoughts
A Certificate of Compliance is more than a form. It’s proof that your electrical work was done safely, legally, and to NZ’s highest standards.
Whether you’re upgrading wiring, renovating your home, or managing an industrial site, always make sure your electrician is registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) and provides a CoC.
At Grammar Electrical, we handle everything! From installation to inspection and certification, so you stay safe, compliant, and confident.
Contact Grammar Electrical today for trusted electrical services across Auckland, or book online and save $15.
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The "Same Day Service Guarantee or it's Free" applies to:
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b. Jobs specified as needing same day service when booking a job by phone or online.
c. Residential and Commercial work booked with Grammar Electrical:
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