The electric utility company is typically responsible for the maintenance and repair of the underground power lines leading to your home. These lines are considered part of the utility's infrastructure, ensuring the delivery of electricity from the main grid to your property.
Understanding Utility Company Responsibility
Electric utility companies are tasked with managing and maintaining the extensive network that brings power to communities. This includes various components, whether they are visible overhead or buried underground. Specifically, your electric company is responsible for:
- Underground Power Lines: This refers to the subterranean cables that transport electricity from the utility's distribution system directly to your home's service entrance or meter. If these lines are damaged or faulty, the utility is responsible for their repair or replacement.
- Electric Service Lines: These are the dedicated lines, whether above ground or underground, that connect the utility pole or the main distribution line to your property. They are the final leg of the utility's delivery system to your residence.
- Wooden Utility Poles: Even if your home receives power via underground lines, the utility remains responsible for any nearby wooden poles that are part of their network.
If an issue arises with these components, such as a power outage caused by a fault in the underground service line before it reaches your meter, it is the utility company's duty to address it.
Homeowner's Responsibility vs. Utility Responsibility
While the utility company handles the service line up to your meter, the homeowner is typically responsible for the electrical system from the meter onward into the house. Understanding this distinction is crucial for knowing whom to call when an electrical problem occurs.
| Component | Responsible Party |
|---|---|
| Underground Power Lines (to meter) | Electric Utility Company |
| Electric Service Lines (to home) | Electric Utility Company |
| Wooden Utility Poles | Electric Utility Company |
| Electric Meter (the device itself) | Electric Utility Company |
| Meter Base (housing for the meter) | Homeowner (in most cases) |
| Main Electrical Panel (breaker box) | Homeowner |
| Internal Home Wiring, Outlets, Switches | Homeowner |
What to Do if There's an Issue with an Underground Power Line
If you suspect a problem with the underground power line supplying your home, it's vital to act safely and responsibly.
- Ensure Safety: Do not approach or touch any downed or damaged lines. Assume all lines are live and dangerous.
- Assess the Problem:
- Is the power outage affecting only your home, or are neighbors also without power? A widespread outage usually indicates a utility-side issue.
- Have you checked your home's main breaker panel to ensure no breakers are tripped?
- Contact Your Electric Utility: If the issue appears to be external or related to the service line leading to your home, immediately contact your local electric utility company's emergency service line. They have the expertise and equipment to safely diagnose and repair issues with their infrastructure.
- Call Before You Dig: To prevent damaging underground utility lines, including power, gas, and communication cables, always remember to call 811 a few business days before starting any digging project on your property. This free service helps mark the location of buried lines, preventing dangerous and costly accidents.
Understanding these responsibilities helps ensure the safe and efficient resolution of any power supply issues to your home.
