A recent emergency job from our Level 2 team, and a good reminder to check the private pole on your property.
The job
We were called to a home in Western Sydney where the private steel power pole had rusted through at the base and fallen across the driveway, bringing the service line down with it. A fallen pole and line is an emergency, so the first priority was making the site safe and keeping everyone well clear.
Once the supply was isolated and the area secured, we removed the failed pole, installed a new one, reattached the overhead service and restored power to the household.
Why private poles fail
A private pole is the pole on your own property that carries the service line to your house. Steel poles rust from the ground up, where water and soil sit against the base. Timber poles rot or get attacked by termites at ground level. Because the damage starts at or below the ground, a pole can look fine from the driveway right up until it fails.
Who is responsible
Beyond the network's connection point, private poles are the property owner's responsibility. Only an accredited Level 2 electrician can replace them, because the work involves disconnecting and reconnecting the supply. See our private power pole replacement service.
Warning signs to check
- Rust, flaking or holes at the base of a steel pole
- Soft or crumbling timber at ground level
- The pole leans or moves when pushed
- A defect notice from Ausgrid or Endeavour Energy
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if a pole or line comes down?
Stay at least 8 metres away, keep others clear and call the network's emergency line: Ausgrid 13 13 88 or Endeavour Energy 131 003. Then call us for emergency make safe and repairs.
Can I get rid of the pole altogether?
Often, yes. Converting to underground power removes the pole and overhead line for good. We can price both options.
Need a Level 2 electrician in Western Sydney?
We work right across Western Sydney and Greater Sydney, 24/7. Call 02 8107 9999. See this job on our Google Business Profile, along with more recent jobs and customer reviews.