Greenwich Private Power Pole Specialists

Several signs indicate your private power pole may require replacement or professional attention. Look for visible leaning or tilting beyond vertical alignment, cracks or splits in timber poles that penetrate deeply, rust or significant corrosion on steel poles particularly at ground level, rotting or deterioration at the base where moisture accumulates, damaged or sagging crossarms and deteriorated insulators, and loose connections or exposed wiring. If you've received a defect notice from Ausgrid or your pole is approaching its expected service life, it's advisable to have it professionally assessed by a Level 2 electrician who can determine whether repairs will suffice or replacement is necessary for continued safe operation.

Galvanised steel poles offer superior longevity with expected service lives often exceeding fifty years, require minimal ongoing maintenance, provide consistent structural integrity without degradation, and resist termites, rot and biological decay. They're also non-combustible which can be advantageous in bushfire-prone areas. Timber poles, typically treated hardwood, have a more traditional appearance that some property owners prefer aesthetically, generally involve lower initial material costs, and possess non-conductive properties. Both pole types are approved for use throughout the Ausgrid network when properly installed by certified Level 2 electricians according to network standards, and selection often depends on property requirements, aesthetic preferences, and long-term maintenance considerations.

All private power pole installations, replacements, and major repairs must be performed by an authorised Level 2 electrician because this work involves connection to the network infrastructure owned by Ausgrid. Level 2 electricians have special certification and authority from energy distributors that standard electricians don't possess, allowing them to legally work on network connection points and infrastructure. They also have specific training in network safety procedures, understand distributor requirements and standards, can provide the necessary compliance documentation, and are authorised to coordinate with network providers for disconnections and reconnections. Attempting pole installations without proper Level 2 credentials is both illegal and extremely dangerous given the high voltages involved.

The installation process begins with a comprehensive site assessment and design consultation to determine the optimal pole location, appropriate type, and specifications for your property's needs and terrain. We then handle all necessary approvals and notifications to Ausgrid as the network provider for your area. The physical installation involves excavation for the pole foundation to appropriate depth, setting the pole securely with concrete or compacted backfill, installing all required hardware including crossarms and insulators, establishing proper earthing systems that meet network standards, connecting overhead cables with appropriate clearances, and conducting comprehensive electrical testing. Finally, we provide all compliance documentation including certificates and coordinate any required inspections with the network provider to ensure your installation is fully approved and operational.