A private power pole, also known as a consumer pole, is a pole installed on private property that connects the property to the main electrical grid. It supports overhead electrical cables and is the responsibility of the property owner to maintain.
You may need a private power pole if your property is not closely connected to the main power line and you are looking for a reliable connection to the main power grid to minimise power outages, or for aesthetics to keep wires off the ground and house directly. Steven Murphy Electrical Contractors will ensure the connection to your property is safely and securely installed.
Typically, Western Power handles the wires connecting your home to the power pole. However, if you have private power lines or a private power pole on your property, you're responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and replacing these poles, wires, and fittings.
In 2021, Western Power launched a private power pole inspection program after a fallen pole caused the Parkerville bushfires. As explained
in this ABC article, this involved checking 120,000 power poles on private properties across WA. As a result, around 35,000 property owners were recommended to replace their poles at their own expense or risk disconnection. You might be surprised to learn you're responsible for your private electrical pole. With more poles expected to be inspected by early 2025 and infrastructure due for inspection every four years, our private power pole electricians at Steven Murphy Electrical Contractors are here to help.
Yes, Steven Murphy Electrical Contractors offers meter box installation and private electrical pole installation.
Get in touch with us today for a quote!
Yes, power poles must meet specific height requirements. In Australia, the minimum above-ground height is 4.5 meters. There is also a standard for how much of the pole must be below ground. Generally, the height of a power pole is determined by the voltage of the electricity grid it serves. Simply put, poles should be tall enough to support the power lines and their voltage safely.
The time required for replacing a consumer pole can vary but generally takes from a few hours to a whole day depending on the complexity of the installation and site conditions. To find out more about our consumer pole replacement services in Perth, speak to us today on
(08) 9381 7711.
If your private power pole is leaning, has visible rot, rust, or broken attachments, or if you’ve received a notice from Western Power, it may be time for a replacement. Regular inspections are key, especially in Perth's varied climate where high winds and storms can accelerate wear and tear.
Yes, in most cases you’ll need a permit or approval from the local network provider like Western Power before replacing a private power pole in Perth. Our licensed electricians handle all the paperwork and notification requirements to make the process smooth and stress-free.