Top Electrical Safety Risks in Older Waikato Homes (And How to Fix Them)

If you live in an older home in Hamilton or the wider Waikato, your electrical system could be hiding serious safety issues. Many people overlook these electrical safety risks because, although the lights still work, the wiring behind your walls may be outdated, brittle, or simply not up to today’s safety standards. This creates electrical safety concerns that need attention sooner rather than later.

At 2E Electrical, we regularly carry out maintenance checks in homes built before the 1990s. Unfortunately, many of these houses have never had a full inspection. As a result, they can develop faults that go unnoticed until they become dangerous.

Common Electrical Hazards in Older Homes

Perished rubber wiring
Houses from the 1950s–70s often used rubber cable sheathing, which becomes brittle over time. These materials increase electrical safety risks like fire and electric shock.
Old fuse boxes
Many older fuse boxes lack RCD (residual current device) protection, which is now a requirement under modern wiring rules.
Missing earth bonding
Bathrooms and kitchens may have exposed metal pipes or taps with no earth protection — a serious safety hazard.
Unrated light fittings
Ceiling lights in older homes may not be rated for insulation contact (IC), creating a fire risk when insulation is added.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait for a Problem to Appear

Electrical faults often remain hidden until something goes wrong. A buzzing outlet or flickering light might seem minor, yet it could signal failing components inside the wall. Acting early helps avoid electrical safety risks, emergencies, and costly repairs.

Preventative electrical inspections can:

Reduce your fire risk
Identify and repair hidden faults early
Improve energy efficiency while enhancing safety
Help bring your home up to Healthy Homes standards

For landlords, regular inspections are essential for compliance with New Zealand’s Residential Tenancies Act.

How 2E Electrical Can Help

Our team of qualified electricians will check your switchboard, wiring, fittings, and safety systems. We identify any electrical safety risks, explain our findings in plain language, and recommend the most effective upgrades. When you choose us, you get expert work completed to the highest standard.

🔗 Book an Electrical Maintenance Visit
🔗 See Our Full Maintenance Services
🔗 Healthy Homes Compliance for Landlords