Certificate of compliance no longer required for Like-for-Like electrical replacements in 2026

The Electrical Safety Regulator, removes the requirement to complete and sign a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) as required under section 41 of the Act for ‘like-for-like’ electrical work, commencing 1 January 2026.

What is a like-for-like replacement?

A like-for-like electrical replacement is the installation of a new electrical product in the same location as the old one and does not require the alteration to the existing supply conductors nor circuit protection.

This meets the definition of a repair as described in Clause 1.9.3.2 of AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules.

This type of service is often offered for replacing specific items that have the same of similar electrical characteristics as the original equipment, such as:

• voltage
• current
• power ratings.

This type of replacement ensures the electrical installation’s inherent safety is maintained without introducing new risks.

All electrical workers and contractors are reminded that wiring must comply with AS/NZS 3000 and other relevant standards.

Examples of like-for-like electrical replacements not requiring a CoC in 2026

• Replacing a double power point for another double power point of a different brand.
• Replacing a double power point for a 4-gang power point.
• Replacing an Edison screw oyster light with a new LED oyster light or a LED batten light.
• Replacing an old mechanical dial operated cook top with an electronically controlled cooktop.
• Replacing an existing isolator for a larger or lockable model isolator.
• Replacing a 5.0kW air conditioner with another 5.0kW or lower air conditioner.

Examples of electrical replacements that continue to require a CoC

• Replacing a 36w batten Fluro for a 200 w LED Hi Bay light.
• replacing an old resistance element cooktop with an induction cooktop with a higher load draw.
• Installing a fan where a light once was.
• Replacing a fan with a fan with integrated light.
• Replacing a 3.5kW air conditioner with a 5.0kW air conditioner.

Electrical replacements where the new product has a higher draw than the original product or needs the extension of wiring is considered an alteration under clause 1.9.3.1 of the AS/NZS 3000:2018.

Alterations still require a CoC.

Online information sessions

Two information sessions are scheduled to answer any questions the electrical industry may have on this change to the CoC requirements. Register via the link s below.

• Wednesday 18 February 2026 at 9.00am
• Wednesday 25 February 2026 at 3.00pm

Have an urgent question?

Email the electrical safety team on AGD.NTWSElectricalSafety@nt.gov.au with any questions you have