Water near power points or the board
If floodwater or a leak has reached power points, the switchboard or appliances, stay out of the water and keep away from anything electrical. Turn off at the main switch only if you can reach it from somewhere dry. Call the SES on 132 500 for flood help, and don't use anything that got wet until a licensed electrician says it's safe.
Burwood's homes, creeks and network
Built after the war
The 1880s land boom brought speculation but little building. Most suburban growth came after World War II, when brick veneer houses became common.
Plenty of rentals
37.2% of occupied homes were rented in 2021. 26.6% were semi-detached or townhouses and 15.4% were flats.
Flash flooding
VICSES says Whitehorse flooding has become more frequent and larger as redevelopment covers more ground, and Gardiners, Koonung and Mullum Mullum creeks rise quickly after a few hours of heavy rain.
United Energy's area
United Energy runs Burwood and East Burwood zone substations. Report outages to United Energy on 13 20 99, or to whichever distributor is named on your bill.
Renting out a Burwood unit
A post-war unit or house that's never had its switchboard replaced may not meet the rental standard, which needs power outlets and lighting circuits on circuit breakers and RCDs. Since 25 November 2025, that has to be in place when the property is advertised.
The 2-yearly electrical safety check covers all Victorian rentals from 13 October 2026. If none has been done in the 2 years before a renter moves in, it has to be arranged as soon as possible.
What we'd do in Burwood
If you're near a creek or in a low spot, we'd know exactly where the main switch is and keep the path to it clear, so you can reach it safely if water comes in. Landlords: get the switchboard up to the rental standard before the next listing goes live.
Want a specialist to sort it?
Tell us the job and your postcode. We match the licence-checked local electrician who does this kind of work, and they call you. No ring-around, and your number goes to them alone.