Electrical installation
Sheet under review by our engineersIt's the network of cables and equipment that distributes electricity throughout your house for lighting, outlets, and appliances. This is what powers your lamps, refrigerator, and television.
Why it matters for your home
A compliant electrical installation ensures the safety of residents and the house against short circuits, fires, and electrocution. A poor installation can be very dangerous and cause frequent breakdowns.
The African context
We often encounter wires of insufficient cross-section for the required power, poorly equipped electrical panels (without adequate protection), and no earthing (grounding). Safety standards are sometimes ignored.
Red flags
- ⚠ Using wires of the same color for all circuits
- ⚠ Absence of residual current circuit breakers (RCCBs) in the main electrical panel
- ⚠ Loose, wobbly, or non-functional electrical outlets
- ⚠ The electrician doesn't mention earthing (grounding) or a lightning rod
Questions to ask
- 1. "What type of cables (cross-section, e.g., 1.5mm², 2.5mm²) will you use for lighting and for power outlets?"
- 2. "How will the electrical panel be managed, and what safety devices (circuit breakers, residual current device) are planned?"
- 3. "Will the house be earthed (grounded)? How and where will the earthing rod be installed?"
Cost hint (indicative)
Approximately 7% to 12% of the total cost, highly variable depending on the number of light points/outlets and quality.
At this stage of your project?
An independent DiasporaBuild inspector can verify on site before you pay.