If you've had a poor experience with an electrician in New Zealand — whether it's shoddy workmanship, unlicensed work, or a billing dispute — you have real options to get it sorted. NZ has a clear regulatory framework for electrical workers, and complaints are taken seriously. Here's what you need to know.
Why Electrical Complaints Matter
Electrical work is restricted work under the Electricity Act 1992. This means it must be carried out by a licensed electrical worker registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB). Dodgy or unlicensed electrical work isn't just frustrating — it can be genuinely dangerous, causing fires, electrocution, or failed inspections down the track. Taking action protects you and future occupants of your home.
Step 1 — Try to Resolve It Directly First
Before escalating, it's worth attempting to resolve the issue with the electrician or their employer directly. Put your concerns in writing (email is fine) and keep a copy. Describe the problem clearly, what outcome you're seeking, and give them a reasonable timeframe to respond — typically 5–10 working days. Many disputes are resolved at this stage.
Step 2 — Check Whether the Electrician Is Licensed
You can verify any electrician's registration status for free on the EWRB's online register. If someone has done electrical work in your home without being licensed, that is a serious legal breach and you should report it immediately — don't wait.
Step 3 — Make a Formal Complaint to the EWRB
The EWRB is the primary body for complaints about the conduct or competence of registered electrical workers in NZ. You can lodge a complaint if:
- The work was unsafe or did not meet the required standard
- The electrician behaved unprofessionally or dishonestly
- Someone carried out restricted electrical work without a licence
- A Certificate of Compliance (CoC) was not provided after the work was completed (this is a legal requirement for most electrical work)
Complaints to the EWRB can be made via their website. The board investigates and, where warranted, can take disciplinary action including fines, suspension, or cancellation of a licence.
Step 4 — Disputes About Money or Contracts
If your complaint is mainly about overcharging, a billing dispute, or a contractor not completing the job as agreed, the EWRB may not be the right avenue. Instead, consider:
- Disputes Tribunal (Small Claims): For disputes up to $30,000, the Disputes Tribunal is a low-cost, straightforward option. You don't need a lawyer.
- Consumer NZ: Consumer NZ has excellent guidance on your rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act and Fair Trading Act, both of which apply to tradespeople.
- Trades contractor's own insurer or professional body: Some electrical companies belong to industry associations that have their own complaints processes.
Step 5 — Report Safety Concerns to WorkSafe
If you believe the electrical work poses an immediate safety risk — for example, exposed wiring, a switchboard that's sparking, or work that could cause a fire — contact WorkSafe NZ as well as the EWRB. WorkSafe handles workplace and public safety hazards and can act quickly where there is serious risk.
In an emergency, always call 111 first.
What About Building Consent and Inspections?
Some electrical work requires a building consent in addition to the standard electrical inspection. If you suspect work was done without the required consent, contact your local council's building department. MBIE Building Performance has guidance on what work requires consent and what falls under Schedule 1 exemptions — but always confirm with your council, as requirements can vary.
Keeping Good Records
Whatever path you take, good documentation makes your complaint much stronger. Keep:
- Contracts, quotes, and invoices
- Photos or videos of the work in question
- Written correspondence (emails, texts)
- The Certificate of Compliance (or note if one was never provided)
- Names and dates of any conversations
When to Call a Professional
If you're unsure whether the work done in your home is safe or up to standard, don't try to assess it yourself — electrical systems can be lethal. Engage a different licensed electrician to inspect the work and give you a written assessment. This report can also be used as evidence in a complaint. You can find qualified, vetted electricians in your area on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Remember: never attempt to inspect, repair, or alter electrical wiring yourself. All electrical work in NZ homes must be carried out by a licensed electrical worker.
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