What is an Electrical Design Consultant?

An Electrical Design Consultant is a specialist who helps you plan, design, and document the electrical systems for your home build or renovation. They balance technical, safety, regulatory, and aesthetic considerations to create a design that supports your daily living needs — now and into the future.

What does an Electrical Design Consultant do?

Your Electrical Design Consultant will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, an Electrical Design Consultant will:

  • Conduct a design consultation (often called an Electrical Appointment) to understand your needs
  • Create a detailed electrical layout plan (lighting, powerpoints, appliances, data cabling, etc.)
  • Advise on switch and outlet placement, energy efficiency, smart home options, and lighting design
  • Prepare a comprehensive Electrical Selections Schedule that outlines all fittings, fixtures, and finishes
  • Coordinate with your builder and electrician to ensure the design is executable and compliant


They ensure your electrical design is practical, safe, stylish, and fully integrated into your broader building plans.

Barry's Toolbox

Think about your future needs too — like EV chargers, solar systems, and home automation. It's much cheaper to rough-in wiring now, even if you don't install everything straight away.

What to look for in an Electrical Design Consultant

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Experience: Look for consultants who have worked on projects similar to yours (size, type, complexity).
  • Knowledge: They should understand relevant Australian Standards (e.g., AS/NZS 3000 Electrical Installations) and local council requirements.
  • Communication: Choose someone who explains technical options in plain language and listens to your lifestyle goals.
  • Visualisation tools: Some consultants offer 3D walkthroughs or visual plans — this can help you avoid costly reworks later.
  • Collaborative approach: They should work comfortably alongside your architect, builder, and other consultants.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Electrical Design Consultants for your electrical appointment and selections, you’ll need:

  • Site address and approved building plans (floor plans and elevations)
  • Details of your intended appliances (cooktop, rangehood, air conditioning units, etc.)
  • Any preferences for lighting styles, power point locations, or home technology
  • Your project timeline for rough-in stage

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 3-5 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

  • Is an Electrical Design Appointment necessary if my builder includes basic wiring?

    Yes. A custom electrical plan ensures your home fits how you live — not just the builder's base inclusions. It can also prevent costly post-construction changes.

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.