What Is a Level 2 Electrician and When Do You Need Their Help?

Eris Electrical is a Level 2 ASP (Accredited Service Provider), and our certified professionals work in specialised teams, providing Level 2 electrical services across the Sydney Metro region. We are authorised to undertake all aspects of Level 2 electrical service work, including the disconnection and reconnection of existing installations, as well as the installation, maintenance, and repair of both underground and overhead service lines.

In addition, we specialise in metering and energising new installations, ensuring each project is executed safely and efficiently while adhering to industry standards. We uphold stringent standards, safety regulations, and industry best-practice protocols. When you need work on the service lines, meters or power supply to your home or site in Sydney, a Level 2 Electrician is the specialist you call.

What is a Level 2 Electrician?

A Level 2 electrician is authorised to work on the electrical supply that connects your property to the primary power network. Unlike a general electrician, they hold an ASP Level 2 licence, which allows them to install, repair and maintain underground and overhead service lines between the public network and your switchboard. They can disconnect and reconnect your property to the grid, upgrade meters from single-phase to three-phase, relocate meter boxes, set up temporary power for sites, repair power poles, and handle any metering work that sits beyond the meter.

What Does a Level 2 Electrician Do? 

This guide explains what a Level 2 Electrician can do, how their ASP accreditation and licences keep your project safe and lawful, and the situations when their skills are essential. You’ll learn about service connections, meter installations, temporary supplies and upgrades from single-phase to three-phase power.

With clear steps to choose the right professional and avoid common mistakes, you’ll know exactly when to reach out and what to expect from Australia’s certified Level 2 experts.

Key Differences Between General Electricians and Level 2 ASPs: 

Licensing and Accreditation

• General electricians hold an electrician’s licence plus an NSW contractor licence.
• Level 2 ASPs hold the same plus a special accreditation from the distributor (Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy or Essential Energy).

Work Boundary

• The key line is your meter. Everything upstream (between meter and switchboard) is general-scope.
• Everything downstream (on the public network side) is Level 2 ASP. It includes service fuses, meter tails, service pillars and poles.

Network Permissions

• General electricians cannot apply to shut off or energise network feeders.
• Level 2 ASPs schedule network isolations, perform work under live or de-energised conditions and then request reconnection.

Metering Expertise

• A general electrician may replace a residential meter if it’s dead-front and unsealed, but they cannot alter the phase count or install net-export solar metering.
• Only a Level 2 ASP can upgrade a single-phase meter to three-phase or connect your solar inverter to the network via a gross/net metering device.

Pole and Line Works

• Workers cannot erect or remove power poles, nor work on overhead conductors.
• Level 2 ASPs order new poles, install or replace existing timber, metal, or concrete poles, and string overhead service conductors.

Underground Service Lines

• Any electrician can run cable inside your home, either under the floor or in the walls.
• Between the street transformer or pillar and your meter box, you need a Level 2 ASP to trench, lay concentric neutral or ABC cable and backfill to distributor specs.

Temporary Builders’ Supply

• Builders often need a standalone switchboard and main supply during construction. Level 2 ASPs can install a temporary board, install the correct metering and notify the utility, ensuring legal power on site.

Defect Rectification and Emergency Response

• An electrical defect notice from your distributor or a Code Audit compels you to call an ASP Level 2 to fix service-side issues.
• Level 2 ASPs are available 24/7 for emergencies such as broken service fuses, fallen poles or damaged cables on your property boundary.

Certifications and Compliance

• General electricians issue test reports for internal wiring under AS/NZS 3017.
• Level 2 ASPs issue an ASP compliance certificate for every job and lodge it electronically with the network, legally closing off your work.

Cost Considerations

• General‐scope jobs are charged by the hour or a flat rate per fixture.
• Level 2 work involves utility application fees plus labour and materials. ASPs bundle these into a project quote, which can include distributor charges.

When to Call Which Professional?

• Book a general electrician if your job involves work inside the meter box, rewiring circuits, replacing safety switches, or installing new lighting.
• If you need a new connection, meter upgrade, pole replacement, underground line installation, network disconnection, or reconnection, always call a Level 2 Authorised Service Provider.

Licensing and Certification under the ASP Scheme

Level 2 Electricians join the Accredited Service Provider (ASP) scheme to gain extra permissions. They must hold an electrician’s licence, as well as the ASP accreditation from their distributor. It allows them to work on service lines, metering, and network equipment outside the property’s main switchboard.

Who Oversees Licensing and Certification for Level 2 Electricians?

State energy distribution companies, including Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy, and Essential Energy, run the ASP scheme in NSW. They train and assess applicants and issue the Level 2 accreditation once electricians meet the safety and technical standards set by the National Construction Code and AS/NZS 3000.

What does the ASP Program mean for Electrical Contractors?

Holding ASP accreditation lets contractors provide end-to-end power services. They can arrange network disconnections, install or upgrade meters, handle service lines and lodge compliance documents with the distributor. It adds value and speeds up projects by reducing wait times for public network crews.

Level 2 Electricians Offer the Following Services 

• Meter Installation: Level 2 Electricians install, remove or swap electric meters at the network boundary. They handle single-phase, three-phase and solar net-export meters. After installing the meter, they notify the distributor and lodge compliance forms to ensure your property remains connected and compliant.
• Single-Phase to Three-Phase Power Upgrade: If you need three-phase power for machinery or heavy equipment, Level 2 ASPs can upgrade your connection. They replace the meter, lay new cables, and check the switchboard capacity. It ensures reliable power for workshops, commercial kitchens, or high-load appliances.
• Underground Power Installation: You can opt for an underground service to keep cables out of sight. Level 2 Electricians trench, lay concentric neutral or ABC cable, and install pit boxes to distributor standards. The work concludes with cable tests and compliance lodgement to ensure the supply meets safety regulations.
• Metered Performance Display (MPD) Installation: Level 2 ASPs set up MPDs to display real-time power usage. This suits homes and businesses that are keen to track consumption, spot faults early, or monitor solar output. They wire the display to your meter and test data links before handing over the system.
• Overhead Electrical Service: For elevated cables from poles to your meter box, Level 2 Electricians can erect or replace timber, steel or concrete poles. They run overhead conductors, install service fuses and secure connections. This service is suitable for properties where trenching isn’t practical or for temporary site power requirements.
• Temporary Builders’ Supply: Construction sites often need a legal power source before the final meter is installed. Level 2 ASPs install temporary switchboards, install the correct metering, and book disconnection dates. It ensures safe, compliant power for tools, lighting and lifting equipment throughout the build.

When Do You Need a Level 2 Electrician?

You need a Level 2 Electrician whenever work crosses the meter or comes into contact with the public network. A Level ASP is essential if you’re connecting a new house or unit complex to the electricity grid. Upgrading an existing system and adding three-phase power to a shed or workshop also falls within their scope.

Metering problems or defects logged by your distributor require a Level 2 ASP to fix or replace the meter tails, service fuses or cables. Should you receive a defect notice, a Level 2 Electrician sorts the fault and lodges the compliance report to close the notice.

A Level 2 ASP always handles service line work, laying underground cables, swapping overhead conductors, or installing temporary supply boards. They book disconnection and reconnection with Ausgrid, Endeavour, or Essential Energy, ensuring your site remains safe and compliant throughout the process.

Whether you need to relocate a switchboard panel for a renovation or install solar net metering, their specialist skills and authorised status ensure compliance with the National Construction Code and AS/NZS 3000 standards.

Engaging a Level 2 professional upholds safety on your site and prevents unexpected shut-offs or fines. It also speeds up your project. Rather than waiting for public network crews, your Level 2 ASP can book and perform the whole job, from trenching for underground cable to setting up a temporary builders’ supply and swapping out your meter.

What to Check and Key Questions to Ask When Choosing the Right Level 2 Electrician?

What to Check:

• ASP Level 2 accreditation and NSW contractor license.
• Public liability insurance.
• Local Sydney experience.
• References from previous work.
• Warranty on labour and materials.

Key Questions to Ask:

• Do you have current ASP accreditation? If so, which distributor issued it, and what is the ASP number?
• Can you share examples of similar projects that have been accomplished in Sydney?
• What warranty do you offer on your products or services?
• How quickly can you respond in an emergency?

Hiring a licensed Level 2 electrician ensures your electrical work is done safely, correctly, and without delays.

Cost Guide (Average Estimates for Sydney)

Level 2 Electrical Services	Estimated Cost (AUD)
Basic meter swap	$430 – $670
3-Phase Upgrade	$1800 – $3200
Underground cable run (10m)	$1300 – $2400
Overhead line work	$900-$1700
Temporary builders’ supply setup	$450 – $750 + hire

Note: Prices include labour, basic materials, and distributor fees. Extra charges apply for complex work. 

The cost for Level 2 electrical services depends on several factors. Knowing what affects cost helps you plan your budget.

What Type of Level 2 Electrical Service You Require?

Different Level 2 electrical jobs carry different price tags depending on the complexity. Installing a new meter costs less than upgrading to three-phase power. Running underground cables often costs more than working on overhead lines because of trenching and reinstatement. Temporary site supplies usually involve setup fees and ongoing hire charges.

• Materials Required: Quality items such as tempered glass-reinforced meter boxes or heavy-duty steel poles increase the cost of the parts. Standard copper conductors are cheaper than specialised concentric neutral cables. Upgrading the switchboard to a higher capacity involves larger busbars, circuit breakers, and safety switches, all of which increase material costs.
• Job Complexity: A straight swap of a single-phase meter can be done in under an hour. An upgrade to three-phase power may involve ordering parts, trenching, switchboard checks, and distributor approvals, each of which adds labour hours and fees. Working in confined spaces or on rocky ground can slow progress, increasing labour costs.
• Urgency: Emergency electrician call-outs at night or on weekends often incur higher rates. Expect a premium if you need immediate reconnection after a storm or an urgent meter repair. Scheduled work during regular business hours usually attracts standard rates.

Always Get a Detailed Quote Before Agreeing to Any Work

A precise, written quote should list each task, parts cost, labour rate, and distributor fees. Ask for an itemised breakdown to know precisely what you pay for. It stops surprises when the final invoice arrives.

Check Insurance and Warranty Coverage

If your builder’s warranty or home insurance covers power upgrades or emergency repairs, your policy may cover part of the cost. Always share policy details with your electrician so they can handle paperwork on your behalf.

Choosing Eris Electrical for Level 2 work means you will deal with one team from start to finish. Their quotes include all network liaison and compliance lodgements, saving you time and effort in chasing approvals.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Working beyond the meter involves live public network cables and equipment. Obtaining the proper licence and following the rules helps keep you and your property safe.

Why Do Certain Electrical Tasks Require a Level 2 ASP?

Only an ASP-accredited electrician can legally work on service lines, metering and network connections. This license indicates that they have completed distributor training and passed safety checks. It ensures that any disconnection or reconnection of the main supply follows the network operator’s procedures. 

Using a general electrician for such work risks damage to the network and voids distributor approvals.

Electrical Work Performed by Unlicensed Professionals Can Have Legal Consequences

If unlicensed work causes injury or fire, insurance claims may be refused. The NSW Government can fine individuals up to $22,000 and businesses up to $44,000 for illegal electrical work by section 20 of the Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act. 

Civil liability also applies: If your uninsured work causes damage to a neighbour’s property or public network, you could face additional compensation claims.

Compliance with Local Electricity Distributors

Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy and Essential Energy each require specific materials, testing steps and safe work methods. You must submit ASP certificates and test reports online to show your work meets their standards. Once approved, they lift the seal on your meter and restore your legal connection. Missing this step can leave your meter locked and your power off.

Safety Standards and Testing

AS/NZS 3000 (the Wiring Rules) demands safe clearances, correct earthing, correct conductor sizing and proper labelling. ASPs test insulation resistance, continuity and polarity on each service line after installation. They sign off that the work meets the required levels of protection against electric shock and fire.

Preventing Delays and Penalties

Skipping distributor procedures often means your planned outage is pushed back or cancelled. This stall building or renovation work can extend the hire fees for any temporary power setup. Late or incorrect paperwork can also result in fines from your distributor, turning a minor hold-up into a costly problem.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Hiring Unlicensed Electricians: Using someone without ASP Level 2 accreditation puts your safety and compliance at risk. An unlicensed worker cannot lawfully touch service lines or meter fittings. Work done without the proper licence may be disconnected by the distributor, insurance may be void, and fines may be incurred. Always check for an ASP number and valid NSW contractor licence before you agree to any job.
• Delaying Defect Repairs: If your electricity distributor issues a defect notice, perhaps for corroded meter tails or a faulty service fuse, leaving it unrepaired can result in a power cut without warning. A Level 2 Electrician must fix these faults and lodge the completion report. Quick action prevents unplanned outages and ensures your supply remains legal.
• Overloading Systems: Adding heavy machinery or extra power points without checking switchboard capacity can overload your system. It may cause tripping, damage wiring or create a fire risk. If needed, an ASP Level 2 electrician can assess your load, upgrade your connection from single-phase to three-phase, and install the correct switchgear for safe operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What work can a Level 2 electrician do that a general electrician cannot?

A Level 2 Electrician can install, repair and maintain cables and meters on the network side of the property meter. They book disconnection and reconnection with Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy or Essential Energy. General electricians can work inside the switchboard only.

2. How do I know if I need three-phase power?

Three-phase power suits high-load equipment such as industrial motors, large air conditioners or commercial kitchen appliances. A Level 2 Electrician can measure your current draw and advise if an upgrade prevents nuisance tripping and delivers a stable supply.

3. Can a Level 2 electrician install solar meters?

Yes, ASPs can install gross and net-export solar meters. They connect your inverter, test the metering, notify the distributor so you can feed excess energy back to the grid, and handle all compliance paperwork.

4. What should I check before hiring an ASP Level 2 electrician?

Ask for their ASP accreditation number, NSW contractor licence and proof of public liability insurance. Request references or examples of recent service line or meter work in Sydney to confirm their experience.

5. How long does a typical meter swap take?

A straight single-phase meter change typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. The electrician confirms the disconnection booking, powers down, installs the new meter and completes tests before notifying the distributor for reconnection.

6. Are temporary site supplies more expensive?

There is a one-time setup fee, plus weekly hire charges, for the temporary switchboard and meter. Costs vary by supplier and job length. Ask your ASP to itemise setup, hire and permit fees in the quote.

7. Do I need a permit for underground cables?

Your ASP must obtain permission from the distributor to trench and lay service cables. They follow specific depths and marking rules. Once complete, they conduct insulation tests and lodge the compliance certificate.

8. What happens if I ignore a defect notice?

Your distributor can cut power without further warning, and you risk penalties and extended outages. Before supply is restored, a Level 2 Electrician must fix the fault, test the work, and lodge the report.

9. Can general electricians add power points outside the meter?

No, anything downstream of the meter requires ASP accreditation. Installing outdoor sockets or a workshop feed often crosses that boundary. Engage a Level 2 Electrician for safe, legal work.

10. How to prepare for a 3-phase upgrade?

Ensure the space around your meter box is clear and safe to work in, with no trip-risk items nearby. The electrician will inspect your switchboard, arrange the necessary parts, and schedule a time for the network shutdown. Once it is set, they can begin the upgrade.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a qualified Level 2 electrician guarantees your work meets NSW laws and distributor rules. You gain the right skills for service-line work, meter changes and temporary supplies. A Level 2 ASP holds the training, accreditation and insurance to carry out all tasks beyond your switchboard. It protects your home or site against unexpected fines, power cuts and safety hazards.

Get in Touch with Eris Electrical

Contact Eris Electrical for certified Level 2 electrician services in Sydney. Our team handles network bookings and meter installations and completes compliance paperwork to ensure your project runs smoothly and safely.