A leaning pole, visible corrosion or damaged fittings calls for a qualified assessment. These signs do not tell a homeowner whether a pole is safe to keep using or whether repair will be enough. A licensed electrician experienced in property poles should make that assessment.
If powerlines are down, stay well clear and call 000. Poles & Holes supplies and installs replacement poles after the site is safe; we do not provide a 24/7 make-safe service.
Visible changes worth reporting
Look only from a safe location on the ground. Useful information for the contractor includes when a change appeared and whether it followed a storm, impact or nearby work.
- A pole leaning more than before, or a noticeable change in position.
- Visible corrosion, deterioration or damage near the base.
- Split or damaged crossarms and fittings that have pulled away.
- Damaged meter-box fittings or cables that appear loose or altered.
A pole can have defects that are not visible above ground. A photograph may help explain the concern, but it cannot replace an inspection or establish structural safety. Do not approach to obtain a closer photograph if you suspect a hazard.
Do not carry out a physical test
Do not push, tap, climb or excavate around the pole. Do not touch its cables or fittings. Contact a qualified contractor and keep others away from suspected electrical hazards.
The Queensland Electrical Safety Office recommends a safety inspection every five years by an experienced licensed electrician. Concerns or new damage need earlier attention. Its guidance also explains that many defects require experienced assessment.
What does an Energex defect notice mean?
The notice identifies a problem requiring action. Follow its stated deadline rather than relying on a typical number of days. Arrange your contractor's assessment and confirm the network's requirements for any outage or reconnection.
Keep the notice and assessment together. If replacement is required, send them with your site address when requesting a quote. The timing depends on the proposed work, footing readiness and network appointments.
Can the pole be repaired?
The contractor needs to assess the defect and installation before recommending repair or replacement. Replacing a damaged component and replacing the structural pole are different scopes. Ask for a clear written assessment so quotes address the work actually needed.
If you are unsure who owns the pole, resolve that first through the distributor's records. Our private-pole ownership guide explains the distinction and the first-pole inspection program.
Arranging a replacement
For a permanent power pole replacement, confirm the required pole rating and height, footing preparation and crane access. Identify any meter box, building cabling and network connection work in the quote. Standard Energex fees and our electricians’ visits for connection work are extra, including with meter-box-and-connection packages.
Our crew installs the pole on the prepared footing. Your builder or concreter prepares the footing to the requirements confirmed for the site, and your electrician handles building cabling. Network work and retailer metering are separate stages. Do not equate installation day with guaranteed restoration of supply.
Keep the records after the work
Keep the quote scope, inspection findings and certificates for the work carried out. Ask the relevant contractor about ongoing inspection and maintenance. A new pole still needs attention if conditions change or it is damaged.
See permanent pole options and prices for the available packages, then send the assessment with your enquiry.
Related Service
Permanent Power Pole Installation
Compare permanent pole packages, footing requirements and replacement options for your property.
