When someone reaches out to us about gaining access to power at their cottage property, there are a number of things we have to chat with them about.
To help cottage owners in this process, we’ve put together an article that answers all of the most pressing cottage power questions.
Dig in to learn all you need to know about getting started.
What are the biggest challenges with getting power to a cottage?
Trouble With Access
The number one concern for cottage owners when it comes to installing or fixing power lines is always access.
From rugged terrain to water and rocky Muskoka areas, completing power line jobs for Muskoka cottages is often more complicated than in subdivisions.
For cottages on islands, access is even more of a challenge. Luckily, at Sturdy Power Lines we have our own barge – basically a big ramp that will extend onto the shore.
However, if there’s nowhere for us to dock, we have to get creative with how we can transport materials and crews.
Soil Conditions
Another main concern for installing power lines for cottage area properties is soil conditions.
When the ground is rocky or swampy, our Sturdy Power Lines team must use a variety of techniques to ensure safety and reliability.
Weather & Seasonality
Not only is getting products and equipment to remote areas more difficult, but it can also be impossible for island properties in the winter months.
If the ice is frozen, the ability to get a crew to an island cottage is slim to none. Therefore, weather and seasonality also play a part in power line access.
Weather is also a concern for those who need their power to be fixed during the winter or a storm. Due to limited access and troubling weather conditions, it can take longer to restore power in cottage areas.
Will my power lines need to go underwater?
In some cases, power lines going to a cottage property will need to go underground or underwater.
At Sturdy Power Lines, we’ll start at one side of a body of water and lower the line into the water until we reach the other side via a boat.
To ensure safety, we GPS the entire process so that markers for the line can be made on marine charts.
Are underwater power lines different from overhead power lines?
Underwater lines are different in that they have an armoured jacket that shields the line from propellers, rocks, and marine life.
Does cottage power installation cost more?
It is important to note that cottage power line installations often cost more than an average installation as there are a number of issues that can arise.
If your installation company needs to remove rocks, for example, the Sturdy Power Lines crew will need to work that much harder, and longer, to complete the job.
- Terrain
- Trees
- Landing Access
- Rock Bed
- Clamps / rock mounts
- Sitting on top
- If we can’t trench, we’ll lay the cable on top with concrete on top
- Lot more labour intensive
How long will it take to get power to my cottage?
If you are in need of power at your cottage property, there is no better time to get moving than now. As utility companies can take up to 26 weeks to finalise your layouts and approvals, there’s no time to waste.
Who do I contact to get power to my cottage?
Step One: Call Your Utility Company
First, you need to call the local utility company that will be providing the power to your cottage. Simply ask for a service layout and provide any requested information.
Step Two: Get A Service Layout
Your utility company will come out to your property and will provide you with a service layout, as well as their fees (connection fee, etc.). You need to complete this process before you can get started with power lines. Keep in mind that this process can take up to 26 weeks to complete.
Step Three: Call Sturdy Power Lines
Once you have your service layout from the utility company, give Sturdy Power Lines a call. We will ask you to provide all of your service layout documentation so that we may prepare a quote for your project.
Step Four: Getting Started
If you accept our quote, our Sturdy Power Lines team will get locates, organize our material and equipment, and head to your location to complete the work.
Step Five: ESA Inspection
Once the work is completed, you will need to have the job ESA inspected.
Step Six: Final Hook Up
Once your utility has authorization from the ESA, they will complete the final hook-up.
Should you require Emergency 24/7 Service, please contact us immediately at 905‑775‑6829 or 1‑888‑478‑8739.