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Namakwa Electrical Projects

Looks Can Be Deceiving: The Hidden Dangers of “Good-Looking” Electrical Installations That Aren’t COC Compliant

In the world of property and construction, a tidy, neat, and modern-looking electrical installation often gives the impression of quality and safety. A row of shiny plug points, flush-mounted lights, or neatly trunked wiring can impress any homeowner or buyer.

But here’s the shocker:

What looks good isn’t always safe—or legal.

As qualified electricians, we see it all the time—installations that would make an Instagram post pop, but would never pass a proper COC (Certificate of Compliance) inspection.

So let’s unpack a few common examples where people are misled by appearances:

Flush Sockets and Switches Installed Too Close to Water

Perception:

“It looks sleek and modern!”

Reality:

If a plug point or switch is installed too close to a bath, shower, or sink, it’s a COC failure. Water and electricity don’t mix—and SANS 10142 regulations define strict safety zones around wet areas.

Concealed Junction Boxes and Connections

Perception:

“No wires in sight? That’s neat and professional.”

Reality:

If the connections are hidden behind ceilings or inside walls where they can’t be inspected, it’s a violation. Junction boxes must be accessible. Neatness must never come at the cost of inspection and safety.

Wiring Without Earth or Incorrect Cable Types

Perception:

“All the wires are tucked away cleanly in conduits.”

Reality:

If the wrong type of cable is used (e.g. speaker wire or twin flex for permanent wiring), or there’s no proper earthing, it’s a COC fail—even if it’s hidden behind plaster and perfectly aligned.

No Bonding of Metal Pipes or Geysers

Perception:

“All the wires are tucked away cleanly in conduits.”

Reality:

If the wrong type of cable is used (e.g. speaker wire or twin flex for permanent wiring), or there’s no proper earthing, it’s a COC fail—even if it’s hidden behind plaster and perfectly aligned.

Distribution Boards That Look New—but Have No Labelling or Overloaded Circuits

Perception:

“Wow, look at that new DB board!”

Reality:

If circuits aren’t labelled, or if too many appliances are running off a single breaker, the setup is non-compliant. No matter how new or modern the board looks, it must follow load, safety, and isolation rules.

DIY Installations by “Uncle Bob”

Perception:

“My friend wired it up for me—he’s been doing this for years.”

Reality:

Unless the work was done or signed off by a registered electrician, it’s illegal. Only a licensed professional may issue a valid COC.

Namakwa Electrical Projects

So What Actually Makes an Installation COC Compliant?

A valid and safe installation includes:

  • Correct cable sizes and protection.
  • Earth leakage devices and earthing in place.
  • Accessible and labeled DB boards.
  • Proper spacing from water.
  • No illegal joints or buried connections.
  • And most importantly: it’s been tested, measured, and signed off by a registered electrician.