Electricity is one of those things we take for granted — until something goes wrong. Flickering lights. Overheated sockets. Power trips right before a meeting. And that mysterious burning smell nobody wants to investigate. That’s when most people realise: not all electricians are the same — and sometimes, you need someone with legal authority to fix the problem.
Enter the Licensed Electrical Worker, better known as the LEW. In Singapore, this role isn’t just a title — it’s a regulated responsibility backed by law. So let’s break down who they are, what they do, and when you actually need one.
What a Licensed Electrical Worker Really Does
An LEW isn’t just an electrician with extra certificates. They are authorised by Singapore’s Energy Market Authority (EMA) to design, install, test, maintain and inspect electrical installations — especially those involving higher loads or safety considerations.
What Makes Them Different
A Licensed Electrical Worker can:
- Approve and submit electrical plans
- Conduct inspections and testing
- Certify installations for safe use
- Apply for or endorse permits
- Handle high-voltage or complex systems
That means not every electrician is legally allowed to perform certain tasks. Only someone with LEW status can provide the endorsements required for regulatory compliance.
Types of Licensed Electrical Workers
In Singapore, there are three main classes:
- Electrician(handles smaller systems and installations)
- Electrical Technician(works on larger setups)
- Electrical Engineer(handles high-voltage and complex electrical systems)
Depending on the scale of your project, you’ll need the right level of LEW to sign off the electrical works.
When You Must Hire a Licensed Electrical Worker
Not all electrical work requires an LEW, but certain situations legally do. Knowing when to call one can save time, money and potentially a safety incident.
Cases Where LEW Endorsement Is Required
You’ll need a Licensed Electrical Worker in Singapore if your project involves:
- Commercial property renovations
- Factory or industrial facility setups
- Power upgrades or increased load usage
- Temporary electrical installations (events/stages)
- Installation of generators or switchboards
- EV charging systems
- SCDF or EMA permit submissions
Simply put: if your electrical system affects safety, structural integrity, power demand or public access — a standard electrician may not be enough.
Renovations That Trigger LEW Approval
Home renovations can also require LEW sign-off if you’re:
- Rewiring the home
- Moving the DB box
- Installing high-powered appliances
- Adding more lighting circuits
- Upgrading to 3-phase power
This is common for older properties, commercial outlets and any unit undergoing major renovation. Without proper approval, you’ll risk delays in inspection — and sometimes even power activation.
Why You Can’t Skip LEW Endorsement
Ignoring regulation doesn’t just put safety at risk — it can delay your project or even lead to penalties.
The Risks of Going Without an LEW
Without proper certification:
- Power supply may not be activated
- Authorities may reject your renovation application
- Insurance claims may be voided
- Safety hazards may go unnoticed
- Electrical faults could damage equipment
The role of a Licensed Electrical Worker goes beyond installation — they prevent regulatory issues before they disrupt your work.
LEW as a Project Partner — Not an Obstacle
Working with an LEW early helps:
- Identify paperwork needed
- Ensure power load calculations are accurate
- Align design with SCDF/EMA requirements
- Avoid last-minute compliance issues
Many experienced developers, architects and renovation firms consult LEWs during planning — not just during installation.
Final Thought — Electricity Isn’t Guesswork
You can DIY a bookshelf. You cannot DIY electrical compliance. In Singapore, the Licensed Electrical Worker plays a crucial role in making sure electrical systems are safe — not just functional.
Think of an LEW as the person who keeps your lights on, your approvals smooth and your insurance valid. Whether it’s a commercial upgrade or a residential renovation, their endorsement ensures your electrical system isn’t just working — it’s legal and reliable.
So the next time someone says “We need LEW approval,” don’t panic. It’s not a hurdle. It’s quality control — with a legal stamp.