Briefly, the utility company is responsible for replacing the electric meter, which is the apparatus that measures the amount of electricity used, usually on a monthly basis. The homeowner is responsible for replacing the meter box, which is the apparatus housing the meter, often called the meter can.
Generally, the utility company is responsible for installing, maintaining, and keeping the lines to the house in good working condition. The homeowner is typically responsible for all maintenance and upkeep of the lines and connections from the point of entry throughout the home.
Quick Takeaways
- The utility company owns and maintains the electric meter.
- The utility company may periodically require upgrades when and if the building codes change.
- Homeowners are responsible for maintaining the meter can.
- If the meter can is corroded, damaged, or upgraded, it may necessitate replacement.
- A damaged, faulty, or malfunctioning meter box can cause a serious safety hazard.
What’s an Electric Meter Box?
A meter box, also called a meter can, is a housing unit mounted on the exterior of a home, and it houses the electric meter that provides electricity to the home.
It protects the electric meter from damage caused by snow, rain, wind, debris, or accidents. The meter is owned and maintained by the utility company, but the meter box is owned and maintained by the homeowner.
Who’s Responsible for the Electric Meter and Who’s Responsible for the Meter Box?
Utility Company Responsibilities
- Connecting and disconnecting electric service
- Maintaining the electric meter
- Reading the meter, usually monthly
- Supplying power to the home
Homeowner Responsibilities
- Supplying and maintaining the meter can
- Supplying and maintaining mounting hardware and the enclosure for the meter can
- Repairs from aging, corrosion, or damage
- Wiring connected to the home
When Does the Homeowner Need to Replace the Meter Box?
The lifespan of a meter box is usually 15 to 30 years, but this can be influenced by several factors, such as climate, meter box quality, usage, and maintenance. Mounting the meter box in a sheltered location that’s also away from wind, water, or snow damage will help prolong its life.
If you notice water, rust or corrosion, a cracked or damaged housing, or any loose connections, you should contact a licensed electrician without delay. So don’t put up with any malarky! Call Mr. Sparky, Daytona’s on-time electrician.
If you need to upgrade your service, from 100 amp to 200 amp, for example, or if your utility company requires the meter box to be replaced before restoring service, then you need to call a professional electrician. This is not a DIY project. Electricity is dangerous and can be lethal if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Situations Where Responsibility Can Change
There are situations in which responsibilities can change, such as when accident or storm damage occurs, local code enforcement changes, or the utility company relocates or changes the locations of its poles. Homeowner’s insurance may cover accidental or storm damage, but every policy is different. There’s no industry standard on this.
If the change in situation is due to the utility company’s actions, there may be shared responsibility for repair, replacement, or relocation.
Is a Damaged Meter Box Dangerous?
Yes, a damaged meter box can be dangerous enough to start a fire, create a shock hazard, or cause a power outage. When a connection is loose, it creates resistance. Resistance generates heat, which can damage wiring, generate a spark, and start a fire. If water is involved, it increases the shock hazard. Although a shock isn’t necessarily fatal, it can be.
A meter box should be checked periodically to ensure that the connections are secure and there’s no damage. Be sure not to touch any part of the meter box or its connections, as they can retain an electric charge and you could get hurt. If you think your meter box needs replacing, don’t put up with any malarky! Call Mr. Sparky, Daytona’s on-time electrician!
What Happens During a Meter Can Replacement?
If your meter can will be replaced, you can generally expect the following:
- Your utility company will disconnect your power service.
- A licensed electrician will remove the damaged meter box, and then install and secure your new meter box.
- Your wiring will be updated if needed.
- Your utility company will restore your electric service.
This procedure builds trust between the homeowner and the utility company while it reduces the homeowner’s anxiety about the procedure.
When to Call an Electrician for Meter Can Replacement
If you need meter can replacement services in Daytona, don’t put up with any malarky! Call Mr. Sparky first. We’re Daytona’s on-time electrician. If you’re unsure whether you need a meter can replacement, check for the following:
- Flickering or inconsistent power
- Do you have an older home with an outdated meter can?
- Is there visible damage or corrosion?
- Have you received a replacement notice from your utility company?
- Are you planning an electrical panel upgrade?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays to replace an electric meter box?
Usually, the homeowner pays for replacing the electric meter box, and the utility company pays for the meter.
Does the utility company ever replace the meter can?
Usually not, unless it’s part of a special program or it’s a utility-owned equipment scenario.
Can I replace my own meter box?
Meter box replacement should only be performed by a professional electrician for several reasons. It’s hazardous because the box can contain residual electricity, and you can get severely shocked. Also, meter boxes must be installed according to code, and most homeowners aren’t familiar with local building codes, nor are they licensed to install this type of equipment.
Also, since replacing the meter box requires disconnecting the power, the local utility company must be involved. If you need meter box replacement, don’t put up with any malarky! Call Mr. Sparky, Daytona’s on-time electrician!
How do I know if my meter box is bad?
If you notice signs of corrosion or rust, loose connections, loss of power, or inconsistent power, then your meter box may need replacing. Be sure to call a licensed electrician; don’t try to DIY it.
Is replacing a meter can a big job?
Replacing a meter can is routine for a licensed electrician, but you shouldn’t attempt this as a DIY project. It’s dangerous and can be lethal. It requires coordination with your local utility company and knowledge of local building codes, but these things are routine for professional electricians.
Need to Schedule a Meter Can Replacement?
If you need to schedule a meter can replacement in Daytona, FL, or the surrounding areas, don’t put up with any malarky! Call Mister Sparky first for safe, code-compliant meter can replacement. Our licensed electricians will get the job done right the first time, and we know you’ll be pleased with our fast, reliable service.
We’re among the best in the area for safety, professionalism, and focus, and we know you’ll be happy with our service. Call us today to schedule your meter can replacement!