Before a single wall comes down, every utility service connected to a building must be properly isolated or permanently disconnected. This is not just good practice — in New Zealand it is a legal and safety requirement. Getting the sequencing right protects workers, neighbours, and the wider network infrastructure.
Why Disconnecting Services First Is Non-Negotiable
Demolition exposes pipes, cables and fittings that are normally hidden inside walls and under floors. If live services are still connected when a structure is being broken apart, the risks include electrocution, gas explosions, flooding, and damage to public infrastructure. WorkSafe NZ sets out clear obligations for managing these hazards on demolition sites, and your demolition contractor is required to have a documented hazard management plan before work begins.
Electricity Disconnection
Electrical disconnection is restricted work and must be carried out by a registered electrician. The process typically involves:
- Contacting your lines company (e.g. Vector, Unison, Orion, or your local network operator) to arrange disconnection at the street or pole
- Having a registered electrician remove the meter and isolate the internal wiring
- Obtaining a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for any electrical work completed
The Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) maintains the register of licensed electricians in New Zealand. Never attempt to disconnect mains electricity yourself — it is illegal and extremely dangerous.
Gas Disconnection
Natural gas and LPG connections must be disconnected by a licensed gasfitter registered with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). Gas disconnection work includes:
- Notifying your gas retailer or network operator (e.g. First Gas) to shut off supply at the meter
- A licensed gasfitter capping or removing internal pipework
- Arranging for the gas meter to be uplifted by the network company
This work cannot be done by a homeowner or a general builder. Attempting to interfere with gas fittings without a licence is illegal under the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 2006.
Water and Wastewater
Water supply and drainage connections also need to be dealt with before demolition:
- Water toby (toby valve): Your local council or water authority can shut off supply at the street toby. Internal plumbing disconnection is restricted work and must be done by a registered plumber.
- Wastewater and stormwater drains: Drain connections to the public network must be capped at the boundary. This is drainlaying work and must be carried out by a licensed drainlayer registered with the PGDB.
- Your council may require inspection of the capped connections before demolition proceeds.
Telecommunications and Other Services
Telecommunications lines (phone, fibre, cable internet) are generally not as immediately dangerous as power or gas, but they still need to be disconnected:
- Contact your provider (Chorus, Enable, Tuatahi First Fibre, etc.) well in advance — lead times can be several weeks
- Chorus and other network operators have their own processes for decommissioning connections
- Sky TV dishes and aerial cables should also be removed
The Correct Order of Disconnection
A good demolition contractor will coordinate the disconnection sequence for you. As a general guide:
| Service | Who Does It | Typical Lead Time |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity | Lines company + registered electrician | 1–4 weeks |
| Gas | Gas network + licensed gasfitter | 1–3 weeks |
| Water/wastewater | Council/water authority + registered plumber/drainlayer | 1–3 weeks |
| Telecommunications | Your provider (Chorus, etc.) | 2–6 weeks |
Always allow plenty of time — network operators can be slow to respond, and demolition cannot legally begin until all services are confirmed as isolated.
Building Consents and Notifications
Demolition of most structures in New Zealand requires a building consent, though some minor structures may be exempt under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004. Always check with your local council before assuming consent is not needed. MBIE Building Performance has guidance on when consents are required. Your council may also require notification to neighbouring properties and a demolition management plan.
Asbestos is another critical consideration for older buildings — any asbestos-containing materials must be identified and managed by a licensed asbestos removalist before demolition, as required under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016. WorkSafe NZ has detailed guidance on this.
When to Call a Professional
Virtually all service disconnection work ahead of demolition must be done by licensed professionals — this is not a DIY area. A reputable demolition contractor will typically manage the coordination of these disconnections on your behalf, but it pays to understand what is involved so you can ask the right questions. If you need to find a qualified demolition contractor or tradesperson in your area, you can search tradedirectory.co.nz for local professionals.
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