Could I be held responsible if a fire started from one of the downlights that I have installed, or even inspected?
Yes, Insurance companies look for someone to blame. Electrical Authorities must prove from the Wiring Rules applicable at the time of your services, that you have been negligent. The huge concern is that many contractors have lost their trade licence and/or insurance cover over ONE downlight fire. Therefore you cannot afford ONE risky downlight, even if you rarely see an audit inspector. You are responsible to sign a certificate of installation compliance to the current standard. And “Duty of Care”is another legal obligation that all contractors should be well aware of. Negligence occurs when being a professional they know, (or should know) something can cause harm to a person and fail to inform the client of the hazard and the options available to the customer to reduce the hazard potential, and subsequently the client incurs harm or injury.
