Disconnection and abolishment of electricity supply

Starting demolition works on your property before your electricity supply is removed is a serious safety hazard.

Electricity supply must be removed before demolition. This is known as abolishment of supply.

You have responsibility for this if you are:

• a property owner
• a developer
• a builder
• a demolition business.

Before starting demolition works, arrange and confirm a supply abolishment with your electricity company.

An abolishment of supply is a service provided by your electricity company. It is usually free. Visit your electricity company’s website to book this service - details on this page.

Did you know?

• Your electricity company owns the overhead supply cable and meter.
• The supply of electricity must be permanently removed (abolished) before any demolition works begin. This includes both overhead and underground supply
• It is illegal to alter, remove or tamper with an electrical supply cable and meter.
• Damaged or dislodged supply cables can lead to a serious risk of injury, electric shock or death.
• Some properties have more than one supply and meter. All supplies and meters must be permanently removed before demolition starts.
• Accounts with retailers must be settled before an abolishment can begin.

Disconnection and abolishment

Disconnection

Supply disconnection means switching off your electrical power supply. There is still a physical connection to the electricity network. It is not safe to start demolition works.

Abolishment

Supply abolishment means the permanent removal of the electricity meter and supply cable. This work is done by the electricity company.

Six steps to get an electrical supply abolished

1. Settle all bills with the existing electricity account.
2. Complete and submit the VESI Application for Abolishment of Electrical Supply Form, available on the Victorian Electricity Distributors website.
3. Inform your builder and any demolition businesses involved that an application for supply abolishment has been lodged with the power company or distribution business.
4. Ensure the property has unhindered access for the removal works to take place.
5. Visually confirm that electricity metering in the building has been physically removed.
6. You can now safely carry out building demolition.

Underground supply

Underground supply must also be abolished. The distribution business may do this at the service pit, pillar or buried connection – and remove the meter. Your electrician can then test and remove the underground mains cable.