O'Brien

Renovating a bathroom is exciting. New tiles, tapware, showers, vanities and lighting can completely change the look and feel of your home.

But before you get too far into choosing colours and finishes, there are two parts of the renovation that deserve some early attention: the plumbing and electrical work.

A little planning before the renovati...

   

The bathroom is one of the hardest-working rooms in any home. Between showers, baths, taps and drains, there’s plenty of plumbing being used every day, so when something isn’t working properly, it can quickly become frustrating.

Whether you’re dealing with a leaking shower, slow drain, poor water pressure or planning a bathroo...

Smoke alarms are one of those things most of us don’t think about until something goes wrong. But in Victoria, smoke alarm legislation has tightened significantly in recent years — and whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or tenant, it’s worth knowing exactly where you stand.

Here’s a clear, up-to-date guide to smoke alarm requirements in Victoria in 2026.

What...

If your business has a warehouse, factory, showroom or office with a big roof and an even bigger power bill, there’s a federal policy change coming that’s worth your attention. From 1 October 2026, the rules around solar rebates for commercial systems are set to shift significantly — and it could make solar a lot more affordable for businesses that previously missed out.

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Your home’s switchboard is its electrical nerve centre — the hub that controls and protects every circuit in the house. But in many Melbourne homes, particularly those built before the 1990s, the switchboard is quietly struggling to keep up with the demands of modern life.

Here’s how to know if your switchboard needs upgrading, what the process involves, and why gettin...