Introduction

Double wood poles remain one of the most common and frustrating issues in joint use programs.

When a new pole is installed and existing attachers do not transfer their facilities in a timely manner, both poles often remain in service much longer than intended.

These situations create safety concerns, increase storm risk, raise liability exposure, and leave utilities carrying unnecessary maintenance costs.

What Causes Double Wood Poles to Remain in Service

Double wood poles are often created when an existing pole is replaced but one or more attachers fail to move their facilities to the new pole.

In many cases, utilities are waiting on multiple communication providers, each with different contractors and schedules.

Without active tracking and follow up, these poles can remain in service for months or even years.

Why Delayed Transfers Create Safety and Liability Concerns

Double wood poles increase the risk of storm damage, equipment failure, and safety incidents.

An old pole may no longer meet structural requirements, yet it remains standing only because existing attachments have not been moved.

If an incident occurs, utilities may still face liability exposure even if another party caused the delay.

This makes transfer coordination a critical part of risk management.

The Hidden Cost of Maintaining Double Wood Poles

Double wood poles increase inspection costs, create unnecessary maintenance obligations, and make future construction work more difficult.

They also create confusion around ownership, transfer responsibility, and closeout status.

Utilities that allow double wood poles to remain in service too long often end up spending more money and time than they would have by actively managing transfers upfront.

Conclusion

Utilities that actively manage transfers and double wood backlog can reduce risk, lower maintenance costs, improve storm resiliency, and keep projects moving more efficiently.

Having a clear process for transfer coordination, replacement tracking, and follow up helps utilities avoid long standing issues that can impact both safety and reliability.

Call to Action

If your team needs support with transfer coordination, double wood reduction, pole replacement support, or follow up inspections, Axiom is ready to help.