Older switchboards with ceramic rewirable fuses do not provide the same level of protection as modern circuit breakers and safety switches (RCDs). Australian Standards require safety switches on all circuits in new installations. If your home was built before the mid-1990s and the switchboard has not been upgraded, it is likely non-compliant with current standards.
| Upgrade Type | Typical Cost |
| Basic upgrade (replace fuses with circuit breakers + safety switches) | $1,200–$2,000 |
| Full switchboard replacement (new enclosure, all circuits, RCDs) | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Switchboard upgrade for solar readiness | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Three-phase upgrade (including distributor connection) | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Asbestos switchboard removal and replacement | $2,500–$4,500 |
| Safety switch (RCD) installation only | $250–$500 per RCD |
Many Melbourne homes built between the 1940s and 1980s have switchboard enclosures made from asbestos cement. These enclosures are not immediately dangerous if undisturbed, but they cannot be drilled, cut or modified without proper asbestos handling procedures.
If your switchboard enclosure contains asbestos and you need an upgrade (for solar, EV, or general safety), the entire enclosure is removed and replaced with a modern non-asbestos unit. Zap Tech Energy follows Victorian regulations for asbestos handling and disposal.
