Brisbane is home to many charming older properties, from classic Queenslanders to mid-century brick homes across suburbs like Wynnum, Manly, Camp Hill, Carina, Mount Gravatt, Annerley, Spring Hill, Logan Central, and Redland Bay. While these homes offer character and history, their electrical systems often weren’t designed to handle modern living.
Electrical fires remain one of the most common causes of house fires in Australia, and older homes are particularly vulnerable. The good news is that many of these risks are preventable with awareness, timely upgrades, and professional inspections.
Here’s how homeowners can significantly reduce electrical fire risks in older Brisbane homes.
Why Older Homes Face Higher Electrical Fire Risks
Many Brisbane homes built 30–60 years ago were designed for a time when households used far fewer electrical appliances. Today, air conditioners, multiple televisions, home offices, kitchen appliances, EV chargers, and smart devices all place heavy demand on outdated systems.
Common fire risk factors include:
- Ageing or brittle wiring
- Overloaded power circuits
- Outdated switchboards with ceramic fuses
- Lack of safety switches (RCDs)
- DIY or non-compliant electrical work
- Old power points and light fittings
- Heat build-up in roof spaces
Queensland’s heat and humidity can further accelerate wiring deterioration, especially in roof cavities.
1. Upgrade Outdated Switchboards
Older switchboards are one of the biggest contributors to electrical fires. Many still rely on ceramic fuses instead of modern circuit breakers and safety switches.
A modern switchboard:
- Prevents circuits from overheating
- Cuts power instantly during faults
- Supports today’s electrical loads
- Reduces fire and electrocution risks
If your home hasn’t had a switchboard upgrade in decades, this should be a top priority:
2. Install Safety Switches on All Circuits
Safety switches (RCDs) are legally required in Queensland, yet many older homes either don’t have them or only have partial coverage.
Safety switches:
- Shut off power in milliseconds
- Prevent fatal electric shocks
- Reduce fire risks from faulty wiring
- Protect power points, lighting, and appliances
An electrician can check whether all circuits in your home are adequately protected.
3. Avoid Overloading Power Points
Double adapters, power boards stacked on power boards, and overloaded outlets are common in older homes with limited power points.
Warning signs include:
- Warm or discoloured outlets
- Buzzing sounds
- Frequent circuit trips
- Burning smells
Adding extra power points and dedicated circuits is safer than relying on temporary solutions.
4. Check Wiring Condition and Insulation
Wiring insulation degrades over time, especially in roof spaces exposed to heat. Rodents, moisture, and previous renovations can also damage cables.
A professional electrical inspection checks for:
- Cracked or brittle insulation
- Exposed wiring
- Loose connections
- Incorrect cable sizing
If rewiring is required, addressing it early can prevent serious hazards later.
5. Replace Old Lighting and Fittings
Older light fittings and halogen globes generate excessive heat, especially in enclosed ceiling spaces. This heat build-up is a known fire risk in Brisbane homes.
Upgrading to LED lighting:
- Produces far less heat
- Uses significantly less energy
- Reduces fire risk
- Improves overall lighting quality
LED upgrades are especially effective in older homes with timber ceilings or insulation close to fittings.
6. Ensure Smoke Alarms Are Up to Date
While smoke alarms don’t prevent fires, they are critical in saving lives when something goes wrong.
Queensland law requires interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms by 1 January 2027. Older homes often still have outdated or incorrectly positioned alarms.
More information on compliant installations can be found here:
7. Book Regular Electrical Inspections
Electrical systems age silently. Many issues go unnoticed until a fault or fire occurs.
Regular inspections are especially important if:
- Your home is over 25 years old
- You’ve recently renovated
- Circuits trip frequently
- You’re adding new appliances or air conditioning
An inspection helps identify risks early and plan upgrades over time rather than reacting to emergencies.
Final Thoughts
Owning an older Brisbane home doesn’t mean accepting higher electrical risks. With proactive upgrades, professional inspections, and safe usage habits, you can significantly reduce the chance of electrical fires while preserving the character of your home.
Small improvements today can prevent serious damage tomorrow — and keep your home safe for years to come.
Contact Jo Electrical Works
For electrical inspections, safety upgrades, and professional advice across Brisbane, Logan, Bayside, and surrounding suburbs:
📞 Call us: 0405 305 068
📧 Email: info@joelectricalworks.com.au
🌐 Visit: www.joelectricalworks.com.au
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