Rapid Emergency Response for a West Boylston Homeowner
BCP Electric was called for an emergency electrical service in West Boylston, MA, after a severe storm. A falling tree limb tore the home’s service mast and overhead power lines away from the house, resulting in a complete loss of power and a dangerous situation. Our team responded quickly to assess the damage, coordinate with the utility provider, and perform the necessary repairs to safely restore power the very same day.
Power Outage and Hazardous Damage After a Storm
The homeowner was left without any electricity, heat, or hot water, creating a critical situation for their family. The damaged equipment, with exposed wiring, presented a significant safety hazard. They were understandably concerned about the immediate danger and how long they would be without power.
In a case like this, homeowners need a licensed master electrician who can respond promptly, secure the site, and understand the process for working with the power company to get the lights back on as soon as possible. BCP Electric regularly performs emergency service mast repair work throughout West Boylston and the surrounding communities.
Emergency Service Mast Repair and Code-Compliant Restoration
Our first priority upon arriving at the West Boylston home was safety. We assessed the damage and confirmed the utility company had disconnected the power at the street, making the area safe to work. We then explained the required steps to the homeowner: BCP Electric would repair the home’s equipment (the service mast, weatherhead, and service entrance conductors), and then the utility provider would be clear to reconnect the main lines.
Our team removed the damaged mast and wiring and installed a new rigid electrical mast, securing it properly to the home’s structure to ensure it could support the weight and tension of the new service lines. This installation is critical for safety and must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC).
We ensured the new installation met all requirements for service mast supports and clearances under the MEC, including:
- How the mast must be installed and supported to handle the strain of the service drop (NEC 230.28 – Service Masts as Supports)
- The required height and positioning of the overhead wires to protect the homeowners from accidental contact (NEC 230.24 – Clearances)
By strictly adhering to the NEC, we ensure the repair is not just fast, but permanent and safe, protecting the family and the home’s value. Once our work was complete, the power company was able to safely reconnect service, restoring full power that same day.
Frequently Asked Questions about Service Mast Repairs
What is an electrical service mast?
A service mast is the rigid conduit (pipe) that extends through your roof or mounts on the side of your house. It holds the main power line (the “service drop”) coming from the utility pole and protects the service entrance wires that go into your electrical panel.
A tree hit my power line, what do I do first?
Stay far away from the downed line and call 911 immediately to report the hazard. Then, call your utility company (e.g., National Grid, Eversource) to report the outage and downed line. Do not touch any part of the wire or surrounding debris. Once the area is made safe, contact a licensed electrician to inspect and repair your service equipment.
Who is responsible for repairing the service mast?
The homeowner is responsible for all equipment attached to the house, including the service mast, the weatherhead (the cap on top), the mounting hardware, and the meter socket. The utility company is only responsible for the overhead wire from the pole to your house.
Why does an electrician have to do the repair before the power company?
The power company cannot legally or safely reconnect power to a building with damaged electrical equipment. A licensed electrician must first repair the service mast and wiring, then a city inspector has to certify that the installation is safe and compliant with the National Electrical Code. Only then can the utility reconnect power.
What does “NEC compliant” mean for a mast repair?
It means the repair meets all safety standards set by the National Electrical Code. This includes using the correct materials, ensuring the mast is securely attached to the building structure (NEC 230.28), and verifying the overhead wires have safe clearances from roofs and the ground (NEC 230.24) to prevent accidents.
Safe, Restored Power and Peace of Mind
Within hours of their emergency call, the West Boylston homeowners had their power fully restored. The new service mast is safe, secure, and fully compliant with the latest National Electrical Code, eliminating the safety hazard and protecting their home. They now have the peace of mind that comes from knowing the work was done right by a master-licensed, 5-star rated electrician.
If your home suffers storm damage or you have an electrical emergency, don’t wait. Call BCP Electric at 978-225-5227 to schedule professional emergency service.
