What Is an Electricity Provider (Temporary Power)?

An Electricity Provider (for temporary power) is a licensed professional authorised to install and connect a Temporary Electricity Pole for your site. This setup is essential at the early stages of construction when permanent power isn't yet available. It provides safe, regulated access to electricity for your tools, trades, and site equipment during the build. For owner builders using the Build Buddy app, engaging the right provider ensures that your temporary setup is both compliant and cost-effective.

What Does an Electricity Provider Do?

Your Electricity Provider will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, an Electricity Provider will:

  • Assess your site to determine the best pole position and type (standard or builder’s pole)
  • Supply and install a temporary electricity pole and meter board with necessary outlets
  • Coordinate with your Distribution Network Service Provider (DNSP) to activate the temporary supply
  • Ensure all works comply with AS/NZS 3000 standards and your DNSP’s safety requirements
  • Remove or convert the temporary setup once permanent power is ready


This provider may also assist in transitioning to permanent power later in the project.

Tip: Save Time by Bundling Temporary and Permanent Setups

Ask if your provider can quote for both temporary and permanent power — this can reduce costs and avoid rework later.


Some Electricity Providers also offer meter installation and trenching — bundling these tasks can streamline your schedule.


If your build is in a new estate, check if a power pillar is already installed — this might eliminate the need for a full temporary pole.

What Makes a Good Electricity Provider?

A good Electricity Provider will:

  • Be accredited by your local DNSP (e.g. Ausgrid, Essential Energy, etc.)
  • Offer experience with temporary supply setups for residential construction
  • Provide a clear quote including pole hire (if applicable), installation, activation, and removal
  • Use compliant equipment and install outlets suitable for builders and trades
  • Be responsive to urgent power-up needs, especially if your site start is approaching


They should also explain what to do when transitioning to your permanent power supply later in the project.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Electricity Providers for a Temporary Electricity Pole, you’ll need:

  • Site address and access instructions
  • Finalised site plan or preferred location for the pole
  • Your local DNSP name (e.g. Endeavour Energy, Jemena)
  • Approximate date you’ll need power on site
  • Whether you’ll also want permanent power later from the same provider

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s the difference between temporary and permanent power?

    Temporary power is for use during construction. Permanent power is connected later, typically when your switchboard and meter are installed.

  • How long can I keep the temporary pole?

    It varies — most providers charge monthly for hire after a set period. Make sure to check how long the included hire lasts.

  • Can I install the temporary pole myself?

    No — it must be installed by a licensed and accredited provider to meet safety standards.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.