What is an Electrician?
An Electrician is a licensed tradesperson responsible for installing all electrical systems in your home, including power, lighting, data, smoke alarms, and switchboards. They are essential to both the functionality and safety of your build and must comply with strict electrical codes and Australian Standards.
In residential construction, electrical work is carried out in two main stages: rough-in (before walls are lined) and fit-off (after painting).
What does an Electrician do?
Your Electrician will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.
Typically, an Electrician will:
- Attend for rough-in, installing cables, conduits, junction boxes, and switchboard infrastructure before plasterboard is installed
- Attend for fit-off, installing power points, lights, switches, fans, and appliances once internal finishes are complete
- Connect and test all systems to ensure safety and compliance
- Submit compliance certificates (CoC) if required in your state
- Liaise with the energy provider for metering and final connection
Some Electricians may also install smart home systems, EV chargers, or solar pre-wiring depending on your build.
Tip: Future-Proof During Rough-In — Add More Power and Data Now
Rough-in is your only chance to future-proof — add extra power points and data cables now, not after your walls are sealed up. It’s far cheaper to overdo it during rough-in than retrofitting later.
What to look for in an Electrician
When reviewing quotes, look for:
- Experience with new builds: Especially staged rough-in and fit-off timing
- Clear quoting: Should include a line-item list of all fittings and locations
- Compliance knowledge: Must be across AS/NZS 3000 and state-specific regulations
- Responsiveness: Willing to work in with your plasterer
- Warranty-backed: Look for minimum 12-month workmanship guarantee and certified materials
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready
To get quotes from Electricians, you’ll need:
- Final electrical layout or reflected ceiling plan (RCP), if available
- Floor plans and elevations
- Preferred light fittings and switch types (if known)
- Schedule of appliances and any special features (e.g. alarm, EV charger)
- Build schedule for rough-in and fit-off phases
Glossary
Below is a list of terms related to managing your electrical works.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Mains Install | The stage where your Electrician connects your site to the main power supply, typically via the switchboard or temporary power setup. |
| In-Slab Conduiting (Basement) | Installation of protective tubes (conduits) in the basement slab to hold electrical cables, done before the concrete is poured. |
| Rough-In Works | Running electrical wiring through the frame of your home before walls are lined, including placement for lights, switches, and power points. |
| Final Fit-off | The last phase where all electrical fixtures—like power points, light switches, and appliances—are installed and connected. |
| Compliance Certificate | An official document from your Electrician confirming that all electrical work meets safety and legal standards. Required before sign-off. |
Average Timeframe
For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within
7-10 business
days.
When Can I Expect Quotes?
Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.
Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).
If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between rough-in and fit-off?
Rough-in happens before walls are lined and includes all wiring, conduits, and switchboards. Fit-off happens after painting and includes power points, switches, lights, and appliances.
Can I supply my own fittings?
Yes — many Electricians allow it, but confirm it in writing. You’ll be responsible for compatibility and warranty if the item fails.
How to Complete this Task?
STEP 1
Review and Adjust the Scope of Works
Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.
STEP 2
Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded
Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:
STEP 3
Update the Quality Assurance Checklist
Go to the
Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.
STEP 4
Request Quotes
Click the
orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.
STEP 5
Review the Quotes
Once you receive quotes:
- Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
- Download attached quote documents for detailed review
- Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews
STEP 6
Communicate with the Pro
If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.
STEP 7
Accept a Quote
Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.
STEP 8
Complete the Tasks In Your App
New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the
Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your
contract and
final Scope of Works whenever needed.
NEED HELP?
Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro
If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.
If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.
