Approximately 26% of Central Coast households rent — around 25,000–30,000 rental
dwellings. The majority are separate houses, with a large proportion built before 1991 when RCDs
first became mandatory on power circuits. Many pre-1991 properties have never been electrically
upgraded, making RCD non-compliance extremely common in the region.
Pre-1991 homes no RCDs fitted at construction
Most common
New tenancy (from Mar 2020) RCDs required before tenant moves in
Immediate
All existing rentals compliance deadline Mar 2021 — now overdue
Breach
Penalty (individual landlord) NSW Fair Trading enforcement
Up to $1,100
Whether RCDs can be added to an existing board or a full upgrade is needed depends on the board’s
age and type. The electrician will assess this on inspection (or from a photo you send via
WhatsApp) before quoting.
Modern MCB board RCDs added directly to DIN rail
1–2 hrs
Old ceramic fuse board full switchboard replacement required
Half day
RCD trip test calibrated tester, must trip <30 mA in <300ms
Included
Certificate of Compliance (CCEW) issued within 7 days, legally required
Included
From 1 May 2023, only Type A or Type B RCDs may be installed — older Type AC devices are banned from new work under updated wiring rules.
Single RCD on existing board (per unit)
$190–$350
1–2 hrs
Rental compliance RCDs (power + lighting circuits)
$400–$700
2–3 hrs
Full switchboard upgrade with RCDs (if board can’t accept add-ons)
$800–$1,300
Half day
RCD testing only (verify existing devices)
$80–$150
Per visit
The NSW Residential Tenancies Regulation 2019 requires switchboard-mounted RCDs on all power outlet and lighting circuits in rental properties. Powerpoint-style RCDs do not meet the standard.
Power outlet circuits
RCD required — mandatory
Lighting circuits
RCD required — mandatory
Fixed appliance circuits oven, hot water
Not required
Entry condition report
RCDs must be confirmed & tested
