Kingsford Private Power Pole Specialists

You likely need a private power pole if your property is set back far from the road, if the connection point (point of attachment) on your building can’t be seen from the street, or if the standard service line from the street would cross over neighbouring properties. Properties with difficult access, steep terrain, or requiring temporary power during construction often benefit from private power poles.

There are two main types of private power poles available: treated hardwood timber poles and galvanised steel poles. Timber poles offer a more natural look and have been traditionally used for decades, while galvanised steel poles provide superior durability, resistance to termites, and don’t rot or split over time. Both options can be installed to meet network standards, with the choice depending on your aesthetic preferences, budget, and site conditions.

Private power pole installation, replacement, or modification requires a Level 2 Accredited Service Provider (ASP) because this work involves connecting to or working near the electricity distribution network. Standard electricians aren’t authorised to perform these connections. Level 2 electricians have specific training and certification to safely work on these systems and ensure compliance with network provider regulations, including proper clearances, earthing, and structural requirements.

Private power poles should be inspected at least every 2-3 years, with more frequent checks if your pole is timber or located in an area prone to termites, high winds, or salt spray. Regular inspections allow early detection of issues like corrosion, cracking, leaning, or wildlife damage. Many property owners arrange inspections alongside their regular electrical safety checks to ensure their entire electrical system remains compliant and safe.

Replacing a private power pole involves several steps: first, we conduct a site assessment and obtain any necessary approvals. On installation day, we set up safety barriers, arrange a temporary power outage with the network provider, install the new pole with proper foundations and earthing, transfer all electrical connections and hardware from the old pole, conduct safety testing, and finally remove the old pole. The entire process is carefully managed to minimise disruption and ensure all work meets current standards.

Private power poles can fail due to several factors: timber poles are susceptible to rot, termite damage, and splitting, especially at ground level where moisture is present. Steel poles may develop corrosion or foundation issues. Other common problems include vehicle impacts, storm damage to crossarms or insulators, wildlife interference, and vegetation growing too close to the pole. Older poles installed to outdated standards may also need replacement to meet current safety requirements for clearances and loading.