Licensed electrician in Singapore: EMA rules, RCCBs and checking a licence
When you need a licensed electrician in Singapore, what EMA's guidance covers, the RCCB requirement for homes, and how to check a licence on ELISE.
Updated 1 min read
A licensed electrician in Singapore is a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW) registered with the Energy Market Authority (EMA). Here's when you need one, what EMA says about RCCBs, and how to check a licence.
When you need a Licensed Electrical Worker
EMA's guidance is that electrical work, at home or in the office, should be carried out or supervised by a Licensed Electrical Worker. That includes:
- Installing, repairing or modifying wiring
- Adding or replacing power points
- Repairing circuit breakers or the consumer control unit
EMA notes that electrical work in an HDB flat requires an electrician. Licensed electricians can handle home installations; larger loads need technicians or engineers.
RCCBs: a legal requirement
A residual current circuit breaker (RCCB) trips the power when it detects leakage, protecting you from electric shock. EMA requires all homes to have an RCCB installed by 1 July 2025, and says owners without an RCCB or ELCB may face a fine of up to S$5,000 from that date. If your flat was built before 1985 and has none, EMA asks owners to engage a Licensed Electrical Worker to install it.
How to check an electrician
- Ask for their licence number and check it on EMA's ELISE portal.
- Look at their licence card before work starts.
- Get a written quote with the company's name.
- When the work is done, the LEW should inspect and test it before it's switched on.
Electrician or handyman?
A handyman can mount a TV or assemble furniture, but not wire a new point. See handyman or licensed contractor.
Costs and quotes
See our electrician cost guide. On ServeGig, electricians give their EMA licence number at signup and we check it before approving them. Get up to 3 quotes on our electrical page.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licensed electrician for work at home?
Yes. EMA's guidance is that electrical work at home, such as installing or modifying wiring, adding power points or repairing circuit breakers, should be carried out or supervised by a Licensed Electrical Worker.
How do I check an electrician's licence?
Use EMA's ELISE online portal or call EMA, and check the worker's licence card before work starts.
What is an RCCB and do I need one?
A residual current circuit breaker cuts power when it detects current leaking, which helps prevent electric shocks. EMA requires homes to have one, and says owners without one may face a fine of up to S$5,000 from 1 July 2025.
Who checks the work when it's done?
Your appointed Licensed Electrical Worker inspects and tests the work to make sure it's safe before switching the new installation on.
Sources
- EMA: engaging licensed electrical workers
- EMA: is it compulsory to install an RCCB in my home?
- EMA: who to engage for electrical works such as rewiring
Facts checked against these sources on 19 October 2026. Rules and prices change, so confirm with the source or provider before you rely on them.
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