Where to find your main switch, and how to turn it off

If you’re moving out and organising an electricity connection at your new place, you’ll need to make sure the main switch at the property is turned off. If it isn’t, the connection can’t be completed safely.

Note: If you are unsure whether your main switch needs to be off, it is best practice to turn it off before you move in to avoid interruptions. Just remember to turn it back on once your move is complete.

Where to find your main switch

House & Unit
If you’re moving into a house or unit, your main switch is usually located in the meter box. This is commonly found at the front of the property, on the porch, in the garage, or on an external wall.

Keep in mind these can vary depending on the age of the property and the style of the meter box, see examples below.

Source: Image 1: IoTaWatt, Image 2: NexaSolar, Image 3: Logical Choice Electrical

Apartment & Multi-dwelling building
If you’re moving into an apartment or multi-dwelling building, there’s often a centralised location for main switches and meter boxes, such as a meter room, basement, car park, or shared cabinet.

If there isn’t a centralised setup, your main switch may be located inside your residence, typically in the hallway, garage, cupboard, or under the sink, see examples below.

Source: Image 1: Reddit, Image 2: Trade Access Panels, Image 3: Reddit

How to turn your main switch off

Turning off your main switch is simple and takes just a few minutes. Simply follow the steps below:

Step 1: Open your meter box and locate the switch labelled “main switch.”

Step 2: Check if there’s also a separate hot water switch.

Step 3: Turn the main switch (and hot water switch, if you have one) to the off position, usually shown as “O” (off) vs “|” (on).

Step 4: Wait for your energy provider to confirm your electricity connection is complete.

Step 5: Once confirmed, turn the main switch and hot water switch back on.