NECA puts out call to avoid DIY home insulation

The peak electrical industry body in Australia, NECA, is warning the community and homeowners not to be lured into installing insulation batts themselves after an online auction company announced that more than 100,000 batts were being sold cheaply.

The Chief Executive Officer of NECA, James Tinslay, said the electrical industry has serious safety concerns for consumers if unqualified or inexperienced people climbed into their roof space and start installing insulation batts: “Insulation batts should only be installed by people and companies that are experienced in this area because there are electrical dangers when working inside your roof.

“The condition of electrical wiring in a roof is usually unknown as it is something most people don’t see every day. Working in a space with metal frames, downlights and electrical wiring has the potential for serious electrical risks to residents and the area is usually poorly lit so it makes it even more dangerous.

“There is also the potential for vermin to have damaged wiring and the usual risks of asbestos, pesticides and heat and humidity.”

NECA is strongly recommending that before insulation batts are installed, residents should have their roof space inspected by a licensed electrician and ensure they have a safety switch that provides a further level of protection.

Home insulation can be effective and can help reduce electricity bills for residents because they may use less energy to heat and cool their home. However, before insulation is installed, residents need to make sure it is safe to enter their roof space.

NECA was the first organisation to warn the Federal Government about the dangers associated with the failed Home Insulation Program in February 2009 and fears there could be more house fires, property damage and injuries if residents install insulation themselves without completing the necessary safety checks.

“An inspection by an experienced electrician will give residents peace of mind before climbing a ladder and crawling into their roof space,” Tinslay said. “We all know the benefits of safety switches, so if any home doesn’t have one installed, we certainly recommend installing them.

“There are real risks involved with this type of work as clearly demonstrated by the damage to property and all the house fires following the government’s failed program. No one wants to see more damage or injuries caused by incorrectly installing insulation or from electrical risks whilst installing insulation batts.

“If residents purchase cheap insulation batts, it would be wise to use an experienced installer.”