Conclusion: Electrical Installation Laws: What You Need to Know to stay Compliant

As we wrap up our three-part series on electrical compliance in South Africa, it’s clear: understanding the basics is just the start. From essential laws to real-world penalties, we’ve covered why compliance isn’t optional — it’s critical for safety, legal standing, and even future-proofing your home or business.

Here’s a final look at the key questions, practical advice, and everything you need to stay protected.

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Q&A: Mastering South Africa’s Electrical Compliance

Q1: What Are the Core Legal Requirements for Electrical Installations?

Electrical work in South Africa must comply with two main legal frameworks:

• Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act 85 of 1993):
  • Property owners and employers must ensure that all electrical installations are safe.
  • Installations must comply with the Electrical Installation Regulations (EIR) and SANS 10142-1 (The Wiring Code).
• Electrical Installation Regulations (EIR, 2009):
  • Only registered electricians may perform installations.
  • A valid Certificate of Compliance (CoC) must be issued for every installation — whether it’s a new home, rental, or business property.

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Q2: What If I Use Non-Approved Equipment or Skip the CoC?

Skipping compliance can have devastating consequences:

• Criminal charges: Negligence that results in injury or death can lead to fines or imprisonment.
• Insurance claims denied: Insurers can reject claims if non-compliant systems cause fires or accidents.
• Civil lawsuits: You could be sued for damages.
  (For example, in a 2024 Johannesburg case, a municipality lawfully cut off power to a building with illegal connections and R2.9 million in unpaid electricity bills.)

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Q3: What Are Landlords’ and Sellers’ Responsibilities?

• Landlords: Must provide tenants with a valid CoC and maintain safe installations. Failure could void lease agreements during disputes.
• Sellers: May not legally transfer property without providing a CoC that is no older than 5 years at the time of sale.

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Q4: What’s New with the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act (2024)?

This 2024 amendment brings major changes:

• Tougher penalties for unlicensed electrical work.
• Authority for the National Energy Regulator to revoke licenses due to unsafe practices.
• Support for NRS 097-2-1 standards, especially for grid-tied solar systems, to ensure safety and grid stability.

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Q5: What Are the Penalties for Illegal Connections or Tampering?

The law is strict:

• Heavy fines up to R100,000 or imprisonment.
• Utilities can legally refuse power supply to properties with tampered or illegal connections (as confirmed in the 2024 Hillbrow court case).

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Q6: How Can I Stay Compliant?

Here’s your simple checklist:

1. Always hire a registered electrician for any work.
2. Use only SABS-approved equipment.
3. Get regular inspections and update your CoC after any electrical changes.
4. Stay informed on new laws like the 2024 Amendment Act.
5. Report unsafe practices immediately to relevant authorities.

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Q7: Who Can I Contact for Help?

For compliance advice or to report issues:

• Provincial Chief Inspectors and IES Specialists
  (Contact lists available through the Department of Employment and Labour.)
• Approved Inspection Authorities (AIAs):
  Independent, accredited bodies that can assess installations and issue certifications.

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Final Word

South Africa’s electrical laws exist to save lives — not to create paperwork headaches. With the new regulations in 2025, the stakes are higher than ever. Whether you’re installing solar panels or upgrading a property, cutting corners could cost you fines, your insurance coverage, or worse.

When in doubt, consult a registered electrician.
Your safety — and your future — depend on it.

👉 For a full breakdown, catch up on our series:

• Part 1: Understanding the Legal Framework
• Part 2: Consequences of Non-Compliance
• Part 3: Your Compliance Checklist