When to DIY and when not to DIY

[Dave A]

Good to see we were on the same page after all.

While we're on common problem areas with this DIY business, let's not forget replacing a light fitting with a ceiling fan (often incorporating a light or more too).
Again, prior to the 2009 regs change, something that didn't necessarily need to happen under the general control of an accredited person.

[DieterT]

Good to see we were on the same page after all

While we're on common problem areas with this DIY business, let's not forget replacing a light fitting with a ceiling fan (often incorporating a light or more too).
Again, prior to the 2009 regs change, something that didn't necessarily need to happen under the general control of an accredited person

Did it not say in the EIR before 2009 about changing of characteristics of circuit or addition / alteration that it must be done by an "accredited person" ?

[Dave A]

For some time the "promoted view" was you're just replacing one fixed appliance with another...

[DieterT]

Food for thought. Did you know when changing a normal incandescent globe to a fluorescent globe you are actually converting the fitting to a discharge luminary? Thus having to get a compliance certificate...
but hey that is probably a whole other discussion by itself

[Dirkie]

While we're on common problem areas with this DIY business, let's not forget replacing a light fitting with a ceiling fan (often incorporating a light or more too).
Again, prior to the 2009 regs change, something that didn't necessarily need to happen under the general control of an accredited person.

Despite all the information I have gathered, I still feel unsure of where the red line is for DIY projects. As I understand no new circuit is allowed without the presence of a qualified electrician, but am I still allowed to replace my own faulty wall sockets and light switches?

[Dirkie]

Despite all the information I have gathered, I still feel unsure of where the red line is for DIY projects. As I understand no new circuit is allowed without the presence of a qualified electrician, but am I still allowed to replace my own faulty wall sockets and light switches?

I think I have found the answer to my own question, and it is no, you are not allowed to change a broken wall socket or light switch. Hopefully someone who knows better can confirm. According to the Explanatory notes on the Electrical Installation
Regulations, 2009:

"electrical contractor" means a person who undertakes to perform electrical
installation work on behalf of any other person, but excludes an employee of
such first-mentioned person;

"installation work" means -
(a) the installation, extension, modification or repair of an electrical
installation;