METER ACCESS
FreeState's meters include technology allowing them to be read without physical access to the meter. These meters read over our powerlines and improve meter reading efficiencies and accuracy, but even with remote reading capabilities, the member is responsible for keeping the meter clear of obstructions and provide FreeState with access to the meter.
When applying for electric service with FreeState, each member provided a signed easement granting the cooperative access to the electric meter. The meter is the property of FreeStateand and we require access to read the meter in order to bill for services rendered and ensure accurate readings. Providing access to the meters allows staff to conduct routine maintenance and to access the meters on an as-needed basis to obtain a manual reading. Easy accessibility to the meter at your service location is required in order for our employees to do their job safely and efficiently. Additionally, if there is an emergency, such as a house fire, we need to have access in order to remove the meter or cut the line from the transformer. This is for the safety of all our consumers.
The National Electric Safety Code requires an unobstructed working space that extends from the floor or ground to a minimum height of 6 feet, 6 inches. For electrical equipment mounted higher than 6 feet, 6 inches, this space shall extend to the top of the equipment. There shall be a minimum distance of three feet of unobstructed working space, measured from the meter face, in front of all electric meters.
Member responsibilities
- Cooperative personnel are strangers and their presence in your "territory" can provoke a pet. If you have a dog, or access to your service is through a locked gate, please make sure that your dog is locked up and the gate is unlocked. Confine pets indoors or chained away from the meter;
- Clear tall grass, shrubs, fencing, leaves, snow, icicles, etc. that may hide or damage the meter;
- Ensuring cars and dumpsters are not blocking the meter,
- Providing special instructions for FreeState personnel, or whatever else is necessary to provide meter access, to include unlocking your gate, providing the cooperative with a key, or calling to arrange a time with meter technician if your gate must remain locked;
- Arrange for an adult to be present when a meter inside your home is to be read or maintenance performed.
Meter Obstructions
Please make every effort to keep your meter accessible, or to fix any current situation that is preventing FreeState from accessing the meter. After a visit to your location when we are unable to access the meter, FreeState will leave a door hanger to let you know of the specific reason the meter was inaccessible or obstructed. This may be followed by additional communication about your meter. Please contact FreeState to discuss your specific meter accessibility issue and recommended next steps. Potential remedies may be as simple as pruning a hedge or may require hiring a plumber or electrician, at your expense, to relocate the meter.
Structural renovations
Contact FreeState if your meter must be removed or relocated to accommodate additions or renovations (home additions, fences, decks, patios, barrier-free ramps) to your property. Never place a meter under a deck or porch. Do not remove or relocate a meter yourself, since it is extremely dangerous to you and your neighbors. In instances where a member requests the meter be placed in a different location, the member is responsible for the relocation costs to accommodate his/her location preference.