Getting a COC before transfer without last-minute panic

Selling property without a valid Certificate of Compliance (COC) for electrical work isn't impossible—but it creates friction, delays, and often forces you into rushed, expensive fixes. Getting one early means you control the timeline, choose your electrician without pressure, and walk into transfer knowing that box is ticked.

The real cost of panic isn't just the fee. It's the electrician who can only visit next week, the inspection that reveals faults requiring remedial work, the conveyancer chasing you daily, and the buyer's attorney flagging the missing certificate as a deal condition. Plan ahead, and none of that happens.

When to start the process

If you're thinking about selling in the next 6 to 12 months, get an electrician to inspect your installation now. Don't wait until your property is on the market or an offer is on the table. An inspection takes a few hours, and a COC—if your system is compliant—takes a few days to process after that. If work is needed, you've got breathing room to schedule it, budget for it, and have it done properly rather than frantically.

If your house is already listed, contact an electrician this week. A COC is often requested during due diligence or negotiations, and having it ready before the buyer asks removes a potential sticking point. If work is needed and you've only just listed, you're still better off starting now than waiting for a buyer to insist on it.

The other trigger is any electrical work you've done recently that didn't come with a COC—a new distribution board, rewiring, new circuits, or even old work that was never certified. That's a flag to get it inspected and certified before sale.

What to do before you call an electrician

First, check whether your installation already has a valid COC. Look for the original paperwork from when the house was built or any major work was done. A COC is valid for a set period (ask the electrician what applies to your installation), so even if you have one, it may have expired. If you can't find paperwork or you're unsure about age, an electrician can advise during the inspection.

Second, be honest about the state of your electrics. Have you had trips, sparking outlets, or work done informally by a handyman? Tell the electrician upfront. They're not there to judge; they're there to make sure your installation is safe and compliant. Hiding issues wastes time and money because they'll show up during inspection anyway.

Third, get at least two quotes. Ask each electrician to outline what the inspection covers—they'll test circuits, check earthing, look at the distribution board, and confirm that all fixed wiring meets the relevant safety standard. The quote should also say whether remedial work is likely or if they expect the system to be compliant. You're not shopping for the cheapest; you're shopping for someone clear, thorough, and someone who can issue a valid COC.

When you book, ask:

• How long the inspection takes and when they can fit you in
• What happens if remedial work is needed—do they quote separately or give a range upfront
• How long the COC takes to issue after inspection (or after any work is completed)
• Whether they're registered with the relevant professional body

A registered electrician with a clear process and honest communication is worth the call. They'll tell you if your system is already fine, or exactly what needs doing and why. No surprises, no panic, no 48-hour scramble before transfer.

When you're ready to book someone you trust, Strove's verified electricians can inspect, advise, and issue a COC without the rush—start your search when it suits your timeline, not when a buyer forces your hand.