Guide to developing a new property
Working near our network
During the early phases of planning your development, it’s a good idea to check whether any parts of the existing Chorus network or any other utility networks are in the way. If our existing network is obstructing the work at your site, you can ask us to quote to relocate or remove it. The other option is to amend your development scheme plan to avoid it.
Whatever you decide to do, it’s important not to come into contact with any existing network, from a safety point of view and because it can be disruptive and costly if you cause any damage.
How to identify our existing network
Take a look at these examples to help you identify our network, and see if anything is familiar at your site.
Like most other utility companies, a lot of our network is underground. Digging up a buried cable can be expensive and inconvenient - not just for us, but for you and anyone else impacted by this. To ensure no underground network is damaged, before you start digging visit beforeUdig where you can request plans showing the underground network free of charge.
If the plan indicates our underground network is near your site, you may like to request a physical mark-out to be done by a qualified asset locator to more accurately see where our network is located. Although there is a small fee involved, it may save you in the long run by avoiding the cost of repairing any damage.
Learn more: What to do before you start digging
What if existing network is in the way?
If you’ve identified any of our existing network, whether above or below ground, that may be affected by your development work, then please let us know when you submit your online request. We can assess the potential impact of your development on our network and decide whether your development can continue as planned or if our network needs to be removed or relocated and the related cost. Since we need access to our network to be able to maintain it at any time, please make sure no structures are placed over the top of it.
What if network gets accidentally damaged?
If you damage or see damage to our network, then remember to firstly keep yourself and the site safe. Then please report it as soon as possible, either by filling in this online form or calling 0800 4 NETWORK (0800 463 896 Opt 2). It’s best if you don’t attempt to move any Chorus network yourself. If there are any damages to the network the person or company responsible for the damage will be liable for the cost of repair.
Learn more: What to do if you damage, or see the damage to our network
What is Chorus’ view on health and safety?
At Chorus, we're committed to keeping our people, customers and partners healthy, safe and secure. This includes anyone and everyone - whether you're a technician out in the field laying fibre cables, to a homeowner getting broadband installed, or a Chorus employee working in one of our offices - we believe everyone should be able to go home safe.
We actively promote a positive health and safety culture and have zero tolerance for major injuries and fatalities. Under the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015, we adopt good industry-based work practices and safety precautions for all build and installation work, including but not limited to:
- Risk assessment and management
- Competency and training that meets recognised industry standards and expectations
- Incident recording and reporting, and investigations when required to prevent recurrence
- Appropriate waste removal and disposal in line with national and international fibre waste and environmental safety standards
