The Site Log

Power poles 2 min read

Temporary Power for Queenslander Renovations

Summary

Plan power around lifting, scaffold, demolition and limited access during a Queenslander renovation, with site-specific connection review.

DougOwner & Director

Published 18 April 2026 · Updated October 2026

On this page
  1. Start with the existing connection
  2. Mark lifting, scaffold and access areas
  3. Check the service route
  4. Plan power for the trades
  5. Finishing the renovation
  6. Questions
Queenslander home renovation in Brisbane

A Queenslander renovation can change access and clearances as the project moves through lifting, demolition and new construction. Plan temporary power against those stages before choosing a pole position.

For available equipment and current pricing, see temporary power pole hire. This guide focuses on renovation constraints that should be raised in the enquiry.

Start with the existing connection

Ask the builder and electrical contractor how the existing supply will be handled while the house is altered. Do not assume it can remain in service during lifting or demolition, or that every project follows the same transfer process.

If a temporary pole is needed, coordinate it with the network and retailer requirements. A potential transfer instead of supply abolishment is assessed for the site; we do not promise a fixed saving.

Mark lifting, scaffold and access areas

Provide a plan showing where the house, supports, scaffold and machinery will be at each stage. Include the driveway and material-storage areas. The pole and stays need a position that remains suitable as those work areas change.

A stayed pole has three anchors about 2 m from the base. The working-clearance guide is separate from powerline exclusion requirements. Discuss any work near overhead lines with the responsible people before starting; an equipment-layout diagram is not electrical safety approval.

Check the service route

Our standard overhead installation guide allows a span up to 25 m, subject to site and network assessment. Do not rely on an assumed 30 m reach or a route over a neighbour's land. Send photos of the street connection point and proposed location for review.

For a site with underground mains, the cable route and network pillar need separate assessment. The underground pole page describes the standard arrangement and quote requirements.

Plan power for the trades

Ask the electrical contractor to assess the equipment and simultaneous loads. Single-phase may suit the requirements, while some equipment needs three-phase. Do not choose simply because the work is called a renovation.

Keep the delivery date separate from the date you need usable power. The network connection and metering providers confirm their own appointments.

Finishing the renovation

Our temporary poles have an 84-day minimum hire, even if the renovation finishes earlier. Confirm any continued hire and the off-hire process with us.

After the temporary supply is safely transferred or disconnected and the wires and meter removed as required, arrange collection. Keep the truck route available through landscaping and final works so removal can be completed.

About the author

Doug, Owner & Director

Doug and Deb purchased Poles and Holes in 2002 as its third owners. Doug is the owner and director of the Capalaba business, which was established in 1960 and supplies temporary power poles, portable toilets and site security cameras.

Frequently asked questions

Can the pole stay in the way of planned scaffold until later?
Agree a position that suits the work programme from the start. Nearby scaffold and powerlines need assessment; do not move the pole or its stays yourself.
Is the overhead service reach always 30 m?
No. Our standard guide allows up to 25 m, subject to site and network assessment. Confirm the actual position and route before booking.

Need temporary power on site?

Send us the site address and start date. We’ll confirm the pole, the Energex paperwork and the delivery fee.