The City of Armadale is supporting a recent announcement by the State Government, reminding residents that privately owned power poles and lines located on private property are the responsibility of the homeowner.
Mayor Henry Zelones said he understands why the government is running the campaign. “Owners of private power poles and overhead lines may not be aware they are responsible for costs associated with pole replacement, reinforcement or conversion to underground.
“It is advisable to have this infrastructure inspected by a licensed electrical contractor, especially if your power lines are supported by a wooden pole which has been in service for 25 years or more, as they could be unsafe.
“There is also the potential of bushfire danger which can be caused by poorly maintained private power poles that are getting towards the end of their life.
“If a poorly maintained line causes a bushfire, the owner could be found liable for the consequences.
“Some people are totally unaware that private power lines and poles are actually part of a home owners electrical installation, which means the maintenance and safety is entirely their responsibility.”
“The City encourages residents to act now, well before summer and the bushfire season, to ensure the soundness of any poles and lines located on their property.
“The State Government will be running a community awareness campaign over coming months to highlight the ownership and the need to check and maintain private power poles. We welcome that commitment to ensuring the fire safety of our communities,” said Mayor Zelones.
If you are in doubt regarding your responsibility for any infrastructure on your property you should contact Horizon Power on 1800 267 926 or Western Power on 13 10 87 for clarification.
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