How to check if an electrician is registered
In South Africa, electrical work must be signed off with a Certificate of Compliance, and only a registered person may issue one. Hiring someone who is not registered can leave you with unsafe wiring, a property you cannot transfer, and an insurance claim that is turned down. Here is how to check before the work starts.
What the Certificate of Compliance is
A Certificate of Compliance (CoC) confirms that an electrical installation was inspected and tested and meets the national wiring standard. It is required by the Electrical Installation Regulations, which sit under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
You will need one after new electrical work or changes to an installation, and when you sell a property, since the seller must provide a valid CoC for the transfer. Your insurer may also ask for it after an electrical fire or damage claim.
Who may issue one
Only a registered person may issue a CoC. Electricians register with the Department of Employment and Labour in one of three categories, and each may only sign off work within its scope:
- Electrical tester for single phase: single-phase installations, such as most homes.
- Installation electrician: single-phase and three-phase installations.
- Master installation electrician: all installations, including specialised and hazardous ones.
The business doing the work should also be a registered electrical contractor. Many are members of the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA), which is a good sign, though membership is voluntary.
How to check before you hire
- Ask for the registration number of the person who will sign the CoC, and their registration category.
- Check that the category covers your job: a single-phase tester cannot sign off a three-phase installation.
- Confirm the registration with the Department of Employment and Labour if you have any doubt.
- Check the company is registered with CIPC and in good standing.
- Agree in the quote that a CoC will be issued when the work is done.
Warning signs
- "You don't need a CoC for this." For most work you do.
- A CoC offered without anyone inspecting or testing the installation.
- No registration number for the person signing, or a category that doesn't cover the job.
- A price that is far below other quotes, usually because steps are being skipped.
Common questions
Who can issue an electrical Certificate of Compliance in South Africa?
Only a registered person: an electrician registered with the Department of Employment and Labour as an electrical tester for single phase, an installation electrician or a master installation electrician, each within the scope of their category.
Do I need an electrical CoC to sell my house?
Yes. The seller must provide a valid electrical Certificate of Compliance for the transfer. If changes have been made since the last one was issued, a new inspection and certificate is needed.
How do I check if an electrician is registered?
Ask for the registration number and category of the person who will sign the CoC, check that the category covers your job, and confirm it with the Department of Employment and Labour if in doubt. Also check the company itself on the CIPC register.