GREENSBORO, N.C. -- The April 15 tornado that tore up parts of Eastern Greensboro and Rockingham County destroyed everything from homes to meter boxes.
What most people don't know, is that if the meter box for Duke Energy is destroyed, it's up to the customer to fix it. In an email with WFMY News 2, Duke Energy explains that customers are responsible for installation and maintenance of their meter box. If a meter box is pulled from a customer's home, they would need to re-install it before power can be restored. That is not a service Duke Energy offers; instead a customer would have to call an electrician.
WFMY News 2 talked to several electricians, who say fixing a meter box isn't necessarily cheap. Depending on how much damage it sustained, costs typically range from $400-$700. They have to look at a variety of factors including damage to the inside and outside of the electrical panel and meter box; installing ground rods and overhead risers; and city fees.
In light of the tornado, though, the City of Greensboro announced it would be waiving electrical permit fees. The fees start at $75 and will be waived until July 20. The city says residents who already paid the fee can get a refund. They can call 336-373-2155 for more information.