Home Remodeler Construction FAQ
How long does the process typically take?
The process of connecting a new or upgraded service account begins once we receive all of the required documentation and information, including a site map and the needs for the site. A site rendering may not be needed for a home remodel project unless the meter will be relocated.
Once we receive all the necessary information, we will be able to provide a time frame for your project.
Do I need an easement?
We may require easements for some electric equipment. An easement is required for all of our equipment that are or will be located on third-party parcels.
Payments to a third party for required easements are your responsibility.
Our staff is available to assist you in writing and recording any required easements.
What things need to happen before actual construction begins?
To start construction, you or your contractor are required to have a job sketch approved by us, and to set up a pre-construction meeting. We also require trench and vault inspections before the contractor backfills.
You are responsible for the cost of all specified conduit and vaults, including installation. Conduit is required for most underground wire conductors.
I want to set up a marijuana grow room in my house. What are the requirements for getting this kind of electric service?
You will need to request commercial service for your home. As with any significant electrical installation — air conditioning, hot tub, etc., — installing grow lamps could tax your existing wiring. Be sure to call us and consult a licensed electrical contractor before you begin.
Also, to comply with federal BPA regulations, it’s important to let you know that residential and small-farm customers who use electricity to grow cannabis will lose their Residential Exemption credit.
This means that residential customers who want to grow marijuana need to request commercial service for this project. Learn more about commercial construction projects.
What are the types of costs associated with electrical service for my remodel?
Line Extension Cost: This includes our service design, inspection, labor and materials to install new, additional or upgraded electric service. We need the load (amount of electricity required for equipment) and plot information to be submitted before this cost can be determined.
Line Extension Allowance: We help cover the cost of connecting you to power by providing a Line Extension Allowance. Your costs are the amount of the Line Extension Cost minus the amount PGE pays with your Line Extension allowance. The Allowance does not apply to trenching costs.
Trenching: This includes your costs for all trenching, pads, vaults, road crossings and conduit.
Miscellaneous costs: These costs can include temporary service fees and right-of-way permit fees, which will be billed to you when applicable.
Once construction is complete
Service installation is normally scheduled 5 to 10 working days after all inspections are approved.
This depends upon successful completion of milestones that happen during construction, including all applicable payments having been made, easements obtained, necessary tree trimming completed, and site access issues (such as driveway installations) resolved.
Use our checklists to help move your project forward
Before you start, see our helpful checklist for information and preparation work you may need to do before and during your project.
LEDs lead the way
Lighting has a big impact on your energy costs, and LEDs are now the top choice for many commercial lighting applications.