The Importance of Electrical Safety

Are you subdividing your land? One of your top concerns is likely to ensure the installation of all the required water, cable, and electricity reticulation to the individual lots goes smoothly. However, the process is not always straightforward, and if you have never done this before, you may find it quite a frustrating and exhausting task. However, having the correct information and knowing what the process entails can help make the experience less stressful. For this reason, here are some of the essential elements you should know about electrical distribution during land subdivision.

Application for Electricity Supply

Rules regarding application for electricity supply in your subdivided lots vary from one state or territory to another and from one electricity distributor to another. Therefore, while most application components will be similar, some are different, and it's crucial to understand the rules and regulations in place before you continue with the process. An excellent place to start is with your local council since you will need to submit your subdivision plans for approval. Your local council will be instrumental in helping you figure out the requirements for electrical installations required.

Your subdivision plan will also enable the electrical distributor to assess the existing electrical supply to determine whether upgrades or extensions will be needed. Note that for cases that involve extensing or upgrading electrical distribution systems, you will, in most cases, be required to make an offer to the electrical distributor requesting for the supply to be made available. Also, many local councils will approve your subdivision after all applications and supply requests have been finalised with the electrical distributor.

Compliance with Rules and Regulations

Electricity distribution during land subdivisions often comes with many compliance issues. And it's imperative to understand the significant rules and regulations to avoid penalties, delays, and frustrations. First, be keen on existing cables when drawing your subdivision plan. Generally, if existing electricity cables will cross individual lot boundaries, they will have to be relocated or removed. This will come with some cost implications, so pay extra attention to that.

Compliance with overhead services across driveways is also another crucial component to consider. Usually, overhead crossing services such as overhead powerlines must meet specific minimum clearance standards, mainly when the installation is over driveways. You can request your electrical distributor to relocate the attachment points to various locations for the extra height where you don't meet the minimum requirements. If that's not feasible, you can consider underground powerlines, which come with their pros and cons. For instance, they are quite expensive to install, maintain, or locate faults in. On the flip side, they are less susceptible to damage from vandalism or outdoor elements.

To learn more about options like Energex subdivisions, contact a contractor.