Are you the one on the line for hiring an electrician?
Your utility company is usually responsible for the wires connecting your home to the pole.
Homeowners are responsible for almost all other electrical components.
A good electrician will have referrals, references, and qualifications.
There are a few best practices when hiring an electrician to ensure work goes smoothly.
You’ve probably never thought about the overhead power lines that crisscross your yard to deliver your home’s electricity. But if a power line sags or is damaged from icy conditions or falling trees, it’s suddenly at the forefront of your mind. When there’s a problem with your power line, know who is responsible for the power line from the pole to your house.
You should call your local electric company to address a sagging or damaged power line as soon as you notice visible signs of damage. In addition, alert the electric company of any downed wires that are sparking or near water. These are serious and potentially hazardous scenarios, and you should alert the proper authorities as soon as possible to prevent a dangerous problem.
Most utility companies are responsible for the “service drop,” which are the wires that run from the utility pole to your home. This also includes the electric meter that measures your electricity use.
That means in most areas of the country homeowners are responsible for other components, such as:
Insulator and weatherhead: The point where the electric lines connect to your home.
The service entrance cable: The wire that extends from your insulator to the meter and from the meter to your circuit breaker box or fuse box.
The meter base: The box your meter is mounted to.
The circuit or fuse box: The main service panel that houses your fuses or circuit breakers.
But this breakdown isn’t black and white. Depending on where you live, the responsibilities can vary. So, if you have a problem with your power line, your priority should be to contact your utility company to determine who is responsible.
Before you handle any type of electrical, including sagging or downed power lines to your home, hire a local electrician to do the work. Never attempt to address it yourself.
Here are some tips for finding the right pro to fix your damaged power line.
One of the best ways to find an electrician is word of mouth. Asking friends and family for recommendations can help you find an electrician you’re confident in.
Not all electricians work on downed power lines, and they may only be qualified to work on the electrical components in your home. Be specific in your ask when you reach out to a pro.
Referrals and feedback from customers are priceless. A positive referral from a homeowner who has had the same work done gives you greater assurance to move forward.
Before hiring an electrician, get an idea about costs. Generally, electricians charge an hourly rate for a service call. The first hour usually costs more, possibly up to $150. Consultations and estimates also follow this pattern. Most electricians will also charge an hourly minimum to compensate for their trip to your home.
Before you call an electrician to come out and take a look at the power line, call your utility company to find out what you are responsible for fixing. That way, you’re not paying for something that the power company is ultimately on the line for.
Checking an electrician’s references, qualifications, and licensure is the first step in ensuring they’re the right fit for you. There are several ways to do this:
Check your electrician’s website, which should list their certifications, qualifications, credentials, training, and licensure status
Look at the electrician's Angi profile to find information about your electrician’s past projects, services, feedback, and reviews
Request proof of licensure through your state’s Department of Labor
Before you hire your electrician, ask them some questions first.
Who will be doing the work? Will it be the owner, a licensed electrician, or an apprentice? If the electrician uses a subcontractor, will they be insured and licensed?
Will you warranty your work? You'll want to ask what portion of the job they guarantee—parts, labor, or both, and how long the guarantee is effective.
How much experience do you have? Beyond simple house wiring, has your electrician ever tackled power lines from the pole to your house?
Are you up to date with the National Electrical Code? The NEC regulates electrical work in most states. A good electrician is current on the most recent edition.
Gather quotes from at least three different electricians before hiring. Ask the electricians to break down pricing and explain in detail the work they will be doing.
It may be tempting to choose the electrician with the lowest quote, but you’ll want someone who knows the guidelines for repairing power lines, and this person may not always be the least expensive.
Once you’ve picked your pro, there are still some steps you need to take.
Never move forward until you understand what’s in the contract. Your contract should include:
An itemization of all work to be done, including the price for that work
When the job will be completed
Plans for any follow-up, if needed
The required deposit, if any
Payment schedule, terms, and method
Take photos of the wires to your home, your meter, fuse box, and anything else you believe you’re responsible for. Also jot down:
What work the electrician completed
How long your electrician worked on the project
Any changes in your electrical service, like if you had a power surge afterward or if you’ve been able to save on your electric bills since the electrician completed the work
All payments made
As your electrician wraps up and you’re satisfied with the job and your costs, it’s time to leave a review. This will help the next homeowner choose the best electrician for their needs. Remember, only pay the final amount due after the job is inspected and completed successfully.
