NECA calls on government to extend insulation inspections

Australia’s peak body representing the interests of electrical and communications contractors nationwide, NECA, has again called on the federal government to inspect all houses under the Home Insulation Program in light of two recent house fires in Melbourne, which have been potentially linked to the program.

Commenting on the risks associated with the Home Insulation Program, NECA National Chief Executive Officer James Tinslay said: “Approximately 25% of houses under the program could have dangerous or substandard insulation. These recent fires, combined with the existence of dangerous and/or substandard insulation, again prompts us to call for all houses fitted with insulation under the program to be inspected immediately.

“The government has foreshadowed the launch of a replacement program - the Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme - later this year. This new scheme should not be linked to a specific launch date unless the government can guarantee that all risks have been properly addressed.

“Further, all houses to have thermal insulation installed under the proposed scheme must be pre-inspected by a qualified licensed electrician prior, to ascertain that the existing electrical infrastructure in the roof is safe.

“The government’s focus should be on making sure that houses already installed with thermal insulation are safe before rushing into a new scheme.”