Connection
The connection of an underground cable from a power pole to a pillar near the front of your property is known as an underground connection. You need to organise an electrical contractor to install a mains cable from the pillar to your meter box to complete the connection.
Running an underground cable from the pole in the street to your property is commonly referred to as a pole to pillar connection. Depending on which side of the road the powerlines are, this may involve drilling under the road. A pillar is then installed inside your property, close to the side and front boundaries. You need to organise an electrical contractor to install a mains cable from the pillar to your meter box to complete the connection.
You can keep an overhead supply when: you have an existing overhead electricity supply to your house, you only require a standard electricity supply, you can meet all the relevant safety requirements, such as clearances near swimming pools, etc., and your power connection has not been abolished (if your power supply has been abolished then you need to apply for a new connection). All new electricity connections and their associated connections must be undergrounded (there are some exceptions in rural areas). New connections can be requested via the Residents tab in new connections.
When subdividing a block you are introducing a new connection to the electricity network so this and all associated connections must be underground.
To connect into an existing pillar you need to submit an application for a new residential connection. Western Power will determine if any additional works are required to connect and provide you a quote. In most instances the only costs will be for a ‘disconnection/reconnection’ service for Western Power to come and terminate your consumer mains.
If you plan to demolish a property, and need the power disconnected and removed so the work can proceed safely, then first speak to your retailer to have your meter removed.
Your retailer will request us to disconnect the power. We generally remove your meter and connection within 10 business days.
- For overhead supply we remove the meter and overhead service cables
- For underground supply we remove the meter. You must arrange to have the underground cable between the pillar and the building removed.
In certain circumstances, your retailer will request you complete the Connections, Disconnections and Metering form.
This will apply if you have a complex CT meter and to specific properties located in the CBD.
Once Western Power has completed work in your area. Power can be reconnected to your property once you (as the home owner or resident) have checked for any additional steps that you may need to take.
When you can return to your home, you need to look for a tag or notification on the status of your electricity supply. This will be placed in the meter box, or at the front door if there isn’t enough space in the meter box for the disconnection tag.
Example tags
If the tag says Caution your connection can be reconnected to the network when power’s been restored. Once connected, you can flick your main switch to ‘On’.
If the tag says Temporary disconnection the homeowner or other person in charge must arrange for an electrical contractor to complete the required works. Once all of the defects listed have been fixed your supply can be reconnected. If you still do not have power after your electrical contractor has completed the required works and provided the relevant information to Western Power, please call us on 13 13 51.
In all circumstances, if your home has been affected by fire, we recommend that you get a licensed electrical contractor to check the integrity of the electrical installation in your property.
For your safety when network power is restored, the electrical inspector advises that you conduct a visual safety check on all external electrical equipment (including bore pumps, power points, external ground lighting) within your property prior to turning it on. If you find any damaged electrical equipment you must contact an electrical contractor to have the problem fixed.
Power fluctuations may occur when power is restored, so it’s helpful to unplug sensitive appliances before reconnecting. When reconnected, turn on appliances one at a time, starting with lights and small appliances. If you experience any shocks, zaps or tingles report them immediately on 13 13 51.
Unsure if your property has been inspected?
Please call 13 10 87 between 8.30am and 5.00pm
Unsure what electrical infrastructure you’re responsible for on your property?
Visit Visit Building and Energy website’s for information on private power poles and lines are your responsibility or our information on private power poles and cables.
For more information please contact us on 13 10 87 between 8.30am and 5.00pm.