Service Disconnection Before Demolition Sydney

Before any house can be knocked down, all utilities have to be safely disconnected. Here's the full list, who to call and how long each one realistically takes in Sydney.

One of the biggest causes of delayed demolitions in Sydney is missed or late service disconnections. Here's the full list of what has to be off before we can swing a hammer, who you call and how long each one takes.

Electricity (Ausgrid / Endeavour / Essential)

You need a written disconnection from the network provider — usually Ausgrid in metro Sydney. Lead time: 4–8 weeks. Cost: ~$1,000–$3,000 depending on overhead vs underground service. Confirm both the meter removal and the service line are off.

Water (Sydney Water)

Sydney Water disconnection is required before structural demolition. Lead time: 2–4 weeks. Cost: typically $1,200–$2,500. The connection must be capped at the main, not just inside the house.

Gas (Jemena)

If gas is connected (mains gas), Jemena must disconnect and cap the line. Lead time: 2–6 weeks. Cost: ~$500–$1,500. Bottled LPG must be removed and the bottles returned.

Telecommunications (NBN / Telstra)

NBN box and lead-in must be removed. Submit a Disconnect request through your retailer. Lead time: 2–4 weeks. Cost: usually nil but allow for retailer admin.

Solar Systems

Solar panels and inverters need to be decommissioned by a licensed electrician before the electricity disconnection. If panels are being salvaged, allow time for safe removal.

Sewer

The sewer connection at the boundary must be sealed by a licensed plumber and a "sewer plug" form lodged with Sydney Water before demolition. Don't skip this — it's a common cause of inspection failures.

Who Does What

You (owner): book electricity, water, gas, NBN disconnections with the utility/retailer
Your plumber: sewer cap and lodgement
Your sparky: solar decommission, meter coordination
Us (Direct Demolition): confirm everything is off before mobilising and check the site is dead before we cut anything

Timing Strategy

Start utility disconnections as soon as your CDC or DA is approved. Don't wait until the demolition is booked. Eight weeks of lead time is normal. If you book demolition before disconnections start, you'll either delay the start or pay stand-down fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the demolisher do the disconnections?

No — utility disconnections must be done by the utility or a licensed contractor with authorisation. We coordinate timing with you and confirm completion before mobilising.

What if a service is found mid-demolition?

Stop work immediately, evacuate and call the utility. This is why we trace and confirm services before any digging or breaking.

Does the demolition quote include disconnection fees?

No — utility disconnection fees are paid by the homeowner direct to the utility. Our quote covers demolition once the site is dead.