Who Owns What? Understanding Electric Equipment Responsibilities

As July rolls in with longer days and rising temperatures, it also brings an increased potential for severe weather. Summer storms can arrive quickly and hit hard, sometimes causing significant damage to essential electric equipment throughout our community.

Oakdale Electric Cooperative (OEC) is always prepared to respond swiftly to outages and restore power safely, but it is also important for you to understand which parts of the electric system are your responsibility and which are maintained by us at the co-op. Understanding these key differences can help speed up repairs and ensure everyone stays safe when the weather turns rough.

OEC is responsible for maintaining and repairing the equipment and lines that run to wherever the metering equipment is located. This includes utility poles, distribution power lines, transformers and the electric meter itself. OEC members are responsible for the metering equipment, (meter loops, sockets, disconnects, pedestals, etc.) and any wiring leaving the meter socket or service disconnect that supplies power to your home or outbuildings. Depending on the situation, some overhead wire, poles, and other equipment may be your responsibility.

If any equipment that you (the homeowner) are responsible for is damaged, please call a licensed electrician to conduct the repairs. A professional has the experience and know-how to assess and manage these types of repairs.

When severe weather damages electrical equipment, it's important to note that any necessary repairs to the homeowner’s equipment must be conducted before OEC crews can restore power to your home or business. By understanding the equipment you are responsible for, the repair and restoration process will be smoother and faster.

View the graphic that depicts what OEC is responsible for and what you as the member are responsible for.

If you have any questions about your electrical equipment, we’re here to help. Please contact our operations department at 608-372-4131.