Question 1

Why is my meter base being red-tagged?

Accepted Answer

Utilities red-tag for burned lugs, cracked enclosures, water intrusion, or loose meter jaws — any condition that risks a service fire. Replacement is required before they'll reconnect.

Question 2

How long does the power stay off?

Accepted Answer

Typically 4–6 hours from utility disconnect to reconnect. We coordinate the utility window so you're not without power overnight.

Question 3

Can I replace just the meter socket without the mast?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes, if the mast, weatherhead, and service entrance cable are in good condition. Most red-tag jobs replace all of it while the service is down.

Question 4

Do I need a permit to replace a meter base?

Accepted Answer

Yes, always. The county or city requires a permit and inspection, and the utility won't reconnect without a signed permit release in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

How much does meter base replacement cost?

Accepted Answer

Most residential 200A replacements run $1,800–$3,500 in the DMV including permit, utility coordination, and mast if needed. We provide a firm written quote before starting.

Question 6

Will my food spoil during the outage?

Accepted Answer

Keep the fridge and freezer closed and they'll hold safely for 6+ hours. We schedule the utility disconnect for morning so you're back on by mid-afternoon.

Question 7

Do you replace the ground rods too?

Accepted Answer

We inspect the grounding electrode system on every meter base job and upgrade to two 8-foot ground rods bonded per current NEC if the existing system is deficient.

Question 8

What if the utility drop is too short after replacement?

Accepted Answer

We build the new mast to the correct height so the utility's existing drop reconnects without new triplex — rare cases needing a new drop are coordinated at no extra cost.

Question 9

Can you upgrade from 100A to 200A during the meter swap?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — it's the most efficient time to size up. We coordinate the panel upgrade the same day so you avoid a second outage.

Question 10

Does homeowners insurance cover meter base damage?

Accepted Answer

Storm and impact damage is usually covered; wear-and-tear generally isn't. We provide photos and an itemized invoice suitable for claims.

Meter Base Replacement

What's included

Our process