Switchboard upgrades in the Perth Hills & Perth metro
Your switchboard is the heart of your home's electrical system. If yours is old, crowded or keeps tripping, an upgrade replaces it with a modern board that has safety switches, clearly labelled circuits and room for what you want to add next. Kivalo Electrical upgrades switchboards for homes and businesses across the Perth Hills and greater Perth.
Signs your switchboard needs upgrading
If you see sparks or smoke, or smell burning, switch off what you safely can and call 000 if there's any risk of fire. Otherwise, call us and we'll talk through what you've noticed.
- It still has ceramic or rewirable fuses instead of circuit breakers.
- Breakers or safety switches trip repeatedly, or won't reset.
- There are no safety switches (RCDs) fitted, or you're not sure whether there are.
- You can see scorch marks, smell burning, hear buzzing, or the board feels warm.
- The cover is cracked or missing, or the circuits aren't labelled.
- The board is full, so new circuits can't be added.
What a switchboard upgrade involves
The old board is replaced with a new one, each circuit is reconnected and tested, safety switches are fitted, and every circuit is clearly labelled so you know what each breaker controls.
Power to the property is off while the board is swapped, so we'll talk you through what to expect before we start. Once the work is finished we provide the required compliance paperwork.
Some older boards are mounted on backing panels that can contain asbestos, so please don't drill into or cut around an old board yourself.
When an upgrade is a good idea
- Before adding a split system air conditioner, a spa or pool, an EV charger, or solar and batteries.
- As part of a renovation or extension.
- When your board has no spare capacity or keeps tripping.
- If it's the original board in an older home and you don't know its condition.
What affects the cost
Every board is different, so the best way to get an accurate price is to send us a clear photo of your switchboard with the cover open. What affects the cost:
- The number of circuits, and whether any existing wiring needs work.
- Where the board is and how easy it is to reach.
- Whether your mains supply or metering has to change, in which case the network operator may need to be involved, which can affect timing.
- Safety switches and the type of protection fitted to each circuit.
- Extra circuits for things like air conditioning, a spa or an EV charger.
Related services
Google reviews
What customers say
“Sebastian completed his first job for us today. He is a genuine honest highly skilled tradesman. We couldn't be happier with the work completed, on time, spotless work practice and all done with a smile. We won't be looking anywhere else for the work that's summarized on the KIVALO website, Sebastian is a keeper!”
Ian K.
Google review · Electrical wiring installation
“Had Sebastian come to do some work I was totally surprised he came on the day and the time he said he would, was totally professional and explained exactly what he would be doing, so helpful”
Anneli M.
Google review · Electrical wiring installation
“We are happy to give Seb a 5 star rating, his work is top notch, on time and very pleasant to work with. Definitely will call him again. Thanks Seb.”
Shelley & Paul S.
Google review · Electrical wiring installation
FAQ
Switchboard upgrades: your questions answered.
How do I know if my switchboard is unsafe?
Warning signs include ceramic fuses, repeated tripping, no safety switches, burn marks, a burning smell or a warm board. Only a licensed electrician can tell you for certain, so if you're unsure, get it checked.
What is a safety switch?
A safety switch (RCD) monitors the electricity flowing through a circuit and cuts the power within milliseconds if it detects a leak, for example through a person or a faulty appliance. It works alongside circuit breakers, which protect against overloads and short circuits.
Will the power be off during the upgrade?
Yes, for part of the job while the old board is replaced. We'll explain what to expect and plan around your household or business before we start.
Do I need a new switchboard before installing solar, air conditioning or an EV charger?
Not always, but a board with no spare capacity or without safety switches often needs upgrading first. Tell us what you're planning and we'll advise.
Can I send photos to get a quote?
Yes. When you request a quote, attach a clear photo of your switchboard with the cover open. It helps us give you a more accurate quote.
Do you offer a warranty on your work?
Yes. All workmanship is backed by a 90 day warranty. Ask us if you'd like the details.
Get a quote for switchboard upgrades
Request a quote online or give us a call. We reply within 1 business day.
- 0412 578 364
- Mon–Fri, 7am–3pmSend a photo any time and we'll get back to you next business day.
- Lesmurdie, WA · Perth Hills & Perth Metro
- Licence EC17474