Who is responsible for what
In most cases, the utility owns the meter and the service drop up to the connection point, while the homeowner owns the meter base, service entrance cable or conduit, and the mast. When your meter base is damaged, an electrician repairs it and the utility pulls and reinstalls the meter.
Because the meter base carries unfused utility power, problems here can be serious. Heat at the meter jaws, a mast pulled loose by a falling limb, or water getting into the enclosure all need attention.
What the work typically involves
Assess the damage
Inspect the meter base, mast, weatherhead and service entrance cable.
Coordinate with the utility
Arrange the meter pull and any disconnect with your electric provider.
Repair or replace
Replace the meter base or mast components and reseal the service entrance.
Restore and inspect
Arrange inspection if required and have the utility restore the meter.
Common reasons homeowners call
- Tree limb or storm damage to the service mast
- Rusted or cracked meter base enclosure
- Heat damage at the meter socket
- Service upgrade requiring a larger meter base
- Loose or leaning meter base on siding
Signs it is time to call an electrician
- Flickering lights throughout the house
- Scorch marks or melted plastic near the meter
- Buzzing or crackling at the meter
- Water staining inside the panel below the meter
- Bent mast or sagging service drop
Safety considerations
Utility power can’t be shut off from inside. The meter base and service entrance are energized by the utility and cannot be shut off from inside your home. Never pull a meter or touch damaged service equipment. If a service drop is down, stay back and call the utility.
What an electrician will check
- Meter jaws and base for heat damage
- Mast, straps and weatherhead
- Service entrance cable insulation
- Sealing against water intrusion
- Grounding at the service
Related electrical problems
Related residential services
Electrical Panel Upgrade
Increasing your home's electrical capacity — typically 100A to 200A — for EV chargers, heat pumps, additions and modern loads.
Electrical Panel Replacement
Replacing outdated, damaged or problem-brand breaker panels and fuse boxes with a new, properly sized panel.
Electrical Grounding
Checking and correcting your home's grounding electrode, bonding and outlet grounding for safer circuits.
Surge Protection
Whole-house surge protectors at the panel plus point-of-use protection for electronics and appliances.
Frequently asked questions
The meter is typically the utility's. The meter base, mast and service entrance wiring are usually the homeowner's. Your utility can confirm the exact demarcation for your service.
Yes. Loose or heat-damaged meter jaws can cause voltage fluctuations throughout the home.
Usually. Meter base work generally requires a permit and inspection before the utility will reconnect.