Service Entrance and Meter Base Repair in Spokane, WA

When people call about this

• A storm or tree branch pulled at the mast or service cable
• A meter base that is rusted, loose or damaged
• Power flickering in the whole house, not just one room
• The utility says repairs are needed before it will reconnect power

What to ask before you book

Ask where the utility's equipment ends and the customer-owned equipment begins, how the utility disconnect and reconnect will be coordinated, and what the permit and inspection steps are before power goes back on.

Have the property address and a short description ready. Our planning guide has a checklist.

What changes the cost

The damage and the equipment decide the cost. What moves the price:

• Mast height, type and attachment points
• Meter base condition and size
• Service cable size and length
• Weatherhead and fittings
• Utility coordination, permit and inspection

Utility coordination is part of the job

The utility owns the overhead drop or underground lateral; the mast, weatherhead, meter base and service cable on the house are usually the owner's side. Only the utility works on its side, and the inspection has to pass before power is reconnected.

A new circuit or wiring change is permit work. In Washington, most electrical work needs a permit bought before work starts. When you hire an electrical contractor, the contractor must buy the permit for the job. Depending on the address, permits and inspections are handled by the city or by Washington State Labor & Industries (L&I).

Permit source: Washington L&I: electrical permits and inspections

Typical steps to discuss before booking

1. Call and describe the damage; a photo of the mast helps.
2. The equipment is assessed and the utility is contacted.
3. Written scope: mast, meter base, cable, permit and coordination.
4. Repairs are made with power off.
5. Inspection passes, then the utility reconnects power.

Keep reading

See panel upgrades when the panel is part of the work, emergency electrician for urgent hazards, the permits guide and the planning guide.