If you call the wrong type of electrician in NSW, you can waste time, money, and weeks waiting for the right contractor. Some electricians can legally work inside your home. Others are approved to work on the electricity network itself.
Understanding the difference between a Level 1 electrician, a Level 2 electrician, and a standard licensed electrician will help you choose the right professional from the start.
At Stuart Johnston Electrical, we believe homeowners should clearly understand who is allowed to do what under NSW law. This guide explains everything in simple terms.
How Electrical Licensing Works in NSW
In New South Wales, electrical work is regulated by NSW Fair Trading and the Accredited Service Provider (ASP) scheme.
There are three main categories of electrical professionals:
- Standard Licensed Electricians
- Level 1 Accredited Service Providers (ASP)
- Level 2 Accredited Service Providers (ASP)
Each category has a different legal scope of work.
The key difference comes down to this:
- Work inside your property boundary → Standard Licensed Electrician
- Work connecting your property to the electricity network → Level 2 ASP
- Work building or extending the electricity network itself → Level 1 ASP
What is a Standard Licensed Electrician?
A standard licensed electrician works on the customer side of the point of supply, usually at or near your meter box.
They hold an electrical licence issued by NSW Fair Trading.
What They Can Do
A standard electrician can:
- Install power points and lighting
- Rewire homes
- Upgrade switchboards (if the service connection is not changed)
- Install ovens, cooktops, air conditioners
- Fix electrical faults
- Install safety switches (RCDs)
- Replace damaged wiring
- Install smoke alarms
In simple terms, they handle everything inside your home or business.
When You Need a Standard Electrician
Most residential jobs only require a licensed electrician, such as:
- Renovations
- Adding new circuits
- Fixing tripping breakers
- Installing ceiling fans
- Replacing lighting
- Safety upgrades
If the job does not involve touching the service line or the street connection, a standard electrician is enough.
What is a Level 1 Electrician?
A Level 1 electrician is officially called a Level 1 Accredited Service Provider (ASP).
They work on the electricity distribution network itself.
In the Wollongong and Illawarra region, the network is operated by Endeavour Energy.
What Level 1 ASPs Do
Level 1 ASPs:
- Construct new power poles
- Install overhead power lines
- Install underground network cables
- Extend the electricity grid
- Build infrastructure for new subdivisions
This work is usually done for:
- Property developers
- Utility companies
- Government infrastructure projects
Do Homeowners Need a Level 1 ASP?
In most cases, no.
Individual homeowners rarely need a Level 1 ASP directly. This type of work happens at the broader network level.
What is a Level 2 Electrician?
A Level 2 electrician is a Level 2 Accredited Service Provider (ASP).
They are authorised to work on the connection between your property and the electricity network.
This is the most misunderstood category.
What a Level 2 Electrician Can Do
Level 2 ASPs can:
- Install and upgrade service cables
- Connect new homes to the grid
- Disconnect and reconnect properties
- Install and replace electricity meters
- Upgrade single phase to three phase power
- Repair damaged service lines
- Work on private power poles
- Convert overhead supply to underground
They are legally allowed to work on equipment that belongs to the electricity distributor.
The Simple Boundary Rule
Think of it like this:
- Street side of the meter → Level 2 ASP
- House side of the meter → Standard Electrician
If the job involves touching the supply cable coming from the street, you need a Level 2 electrician.
When Do You Need a Level 2 Electrician?
Here are common situations where homeowners need Level 2 ASP services.
1. New Home Connections
Building a new home requires:
- Installation of service cable
- Meter installation
- Live connection to the network
Only a Level 2 ASP can legally perform this work.
2. Service Upgrades
Older homes often have limited capacity.
Modern homes now include:
- Ducted air conditioning
- Induction cooktops
- EV chargers
- Pool equipment
- Workshop machinery
If your supply needs upgrading from single phase to three phase, only a Level 2 electrician can do it.
3. Meter Work
Meters are part of the regulated supply connection.
Level 2 ASPs handle:
- New meter installations
- Meter replacements
- Temporary disconnections
- Subdivision metering
4. Storm Damage Repairs
After storms, overhead service lines can be damaged.
If the cable from the street to your home is affected, a Level 2 ASP must carry out repairs.
5. Private Power Poles
Some properties have private poles bringing power from the street.
If these need:
- Replacement
- Relocation
- Maintenance
You need a Level 2 accredited electrician.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Work Type | Standard Electrician | Level 1 ASP | Level 2 ASP |
| Internal wiring | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Power points & lighting | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Switchboards | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ (if service affected) |
| Network construction | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Service cable installation | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Meter installation | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Grid extension projects | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Property connection | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
Legal Requirements in NSW
Working on network infrastructure without proper ASP accreditation can lead to serious penalties.
Level 2 electricians must:
- Notify the electricity distributor before starting work
- Follow strict safety procedures
- Carry specialised insurance
- Meet compliance standards under NSW regulations
This is not just about skill. It is about legal authorisation.
Can a Level 2 Electrician Do Standard Work?
Yes.
Level 2 ASPs also hold standard electrical licences.
This means they can:
- Perform internal electrical work
- Carry out service upgrades
- Install meters
- Handle full project coordination
Using a contractor with both qualifications often saves time and avoids delays.
Why Choosing the Right Electrician Matters
Calling the wrong electrician can cause:
- Project delays
- Extra call out fees
- Failed inspections
- Legal compliance issues
Before booking any electrical work, it is important to confirm whether the job affects your network connection.
How Stuart Johnston Electrical Can Help
At Stuart Johnston Electrical, we provide clear advice before any work begins. We assess whether your project requires:
- Standard electrical services
- Level 2 ASP services
- Or both
Our team understands the requirements of Endeavour Energy and NSW regulations. We make sure every job is completed safely, legally, and without unnecessary delays.
From simple power point installations to full service upgrades, we handle the process correctly from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Most homeowners only need a standard licensed electrician. But when the work involves the service line, meter, or connection to the street network, you need a Level 2 Accredited Service Provider.
Understanding the difference protects your project, your budget, and your safety.
If you are unsure which type of electrician your project requires, contact Stuart Johnston Electrical for clear guidance and professional service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 electricians?
Level 1 ASPs build and extend the electricity network infrastructure. Level 2 ASPs connect properties to that network. Standard licensed electricians work inside homes and businesses.
Do I need a Level 2 electrician for a switchboard upgrade?
If the upgrade does not affect the incoming service cable, a standard electrician can do it. If the service capacity must be upgraded, you need a Level 2 ASP.
Is Level 2 higher than a normal electrician?
Level 2 is an additional accreditation. It allows electricians to work on network connections legally.
Who regulates electricians in NSW?
Electrical licensing is regulated by NSW Fair Trading. ASP accreditation is overseen through the electricity distributor framework.