Sheep Electrical • Homeowner Guide

Damaged Service Mast? What Metairie Homeowners Should Do

After a storm, the utility may restore power to the street while one home remains disconnected. Damage to the equipment at the house can require a separate repair before reconnection.

What is the service mast?

In an overhead service arrangement, the mast is part of the equipment carrying service conductors toward the meter. A weatherhead helps manage the point where the conductors enter the raceway. Installations vary, and not every home has an overhead mast.

A leaning pipe, equipment pulled away from the wall, or damage near the meter can involve more than a cosmetic repair. Do not touch, straighten, or brace the equipment yourself.

Start with distance and a phone call

Treat fallen wires and damaged service conductors as energized. Keep other people and pets away, and report the condition to the utility. If there is fire or an immediate danger, call emergency services.

Describe what you can see from a safe location. You do not need a close-up photograph to request help. Never use a ladder near the service to inspect the damage.

Why an electrician may be needed

The utility and property owner can have different responsibilities for service equipment. The applicable utility requirements and the installation determine the boundary. Ask which customer-owned components need repair and what approval is needed before reconnection.

An electrician can assess the affected equipment, discuss the repair scope, and coordinate the relevant steps. A damaged mast may also involve the meter enclosure, attachment point, conductors, or supporting structure.

Understand the restoration sequence

• Report the damage and establish the safe next step.
• Have the affected installation evaluated.
• Confirm the repair, permit, and inspection requirements.
• Complete the necessary work and approvals.
• Coordinate reconnection with the utility.

These stages can affect timing, especially after a widespread storm. Completing an electrician’s work does not automatically mean the utility can reconnect immediately.

Keep the whole repair in view

Ask whether the estimate includes related equipment and whether a roofing or exterior repair is also needed. Clear responsibility for each part helps prevent an incomplete repair.

Our emergency electrical service can help with urgent concerns about damaged customer-side electrical equipment.