Who owns the meter and connection steps?
The utility controls its equipment and authorized connection work. PSE prohibits unauthorized meter handling and asks customers to contact Construction Services when its equipment is affected.
- Tacoma Power separately requires authorized representatives for service-conductor disconnect/reconnect.
- A contractor’s installation schedule does not automatically reserve a utility crew.
What triggers engineering review?
Added load, changed service size, a meter move, overhead-to-underground conversion or a connection route can require review. PSE’s handbook asks about equipment, service type and connection point.
- Tacoma’s handbook directs added-load projects to New Services Engineering.
- Centralia evaluates modified services and develops a utility cost estimate.
What information prevents a scope gap?
Have the address, serving utility, planned loads, existing service information and proposed meter location ready. Ask whether easements, street-use permits, access, transformer capacity or customer site work affect the plan.
- Do not assume the electrical contractor’s price includes utility charges or restoration unless the quote says so.
When can power be restored?
Restoration depends on the utility’s process and required inspection clearance. Ask for the named parties, cutover plan, readiness requirements and a contingency if the work cannot be approved that day.
- No statewide calendar or outage promise follows from a nominal 200 or 400 amp rating.
How should utility costs appear beside contractor costs?
Ask the contractor to name any utility application, engineering, connection or facility charges as included, estimated separately or excluded. Also identify the customer site work needed to meet utility readiness.
- Utility review can change the required connection scope; agree how such a change will be authorized and priced.
- A contractor’s quoted panel total should not be assumed to include all utility work simply because both are necessary for the home to receive power.
Sources and scope
Primary-source research reviewed October 17, 2026 for utility coordination for a residential service upgrade. Code, utility standards and administrative guidance have different roles. Confirm current requirements for the project address.