Where a battery can and cannot go
| Location | Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens and other habitable rooms | No |
| Ceiling spaces, wall cavities and roofs | No |
| Under stairs or access walkways | No |
| Evacuation or escape routes | No |
| Garage | Usually yes, with clearances and protection for any wall shared with a habitable room |
| Outside wall | Usually yes, if the battery is rated for outdoor use and clearances are met |
The standard also sets clearances, including 600 mm from exits and from windows or vents into habitable rooms, and from hot water units, air conditioners and other appliances. A wall between a battery and a habitable room may need a non-combustible barrier.
Who can install a battery
Accredited installer
A Solar Accreditation Australia accredited installer with battery accreditation, for safety and for the federal discount.
Licensed electrician
The electrical work and the compliance certificate, which marks the installation date for the discount.
Network approval
Your installer notifies or applies to the network, which may update your export settings.
Before the installer arrives
- Agree the location in writing and check it meets the standard.
- Ask about shade and ventilation, since heat shortens battery life.
- Ask whether the switchboard needs an upgrade and what backup circuits are included.
- Check the battery and inverter are on the Clean Energy Council approved lists.
Never install a battery yourself
Home batteries store a lot of energy. A DIY or unaccredited installation is unsafe, may void your insurance and warranty, and will not get the federal discount.
Common questions
Not in habitable rooms such as bedrooms or living areas. Garages are a common indoor location, subject to clearances and protection for walls shared with habitable rooms.
AS/NZS 5139, the Australian and New Zealand standard for electrical installations of battery systems used with power conversion equipment.
Usually yes. The garage is not a habitable room, but clearances around doors and appliances apply, and a shared wall with a living area may need a barrier.
Sources
Rules and program details come from government sources. Prices are industry averages, named and dated where used. Last checked October 2026. Prices include GST unless we say otherwise.