Meter Box Replacement & Repair Costs

The meter box is located outside the home so it is prone to receiving damage. From the weather to being hit directly by a vehicle, there are specific issues with the electrical meter box that will require repairs. This can include rain causing corrosion, items hitting the box to old age making parts break. 

It is important that an electrician undergoes the repairs even if there is no electrical wiring involved. This is because the box is connected to electrical supply networks, safety switches and other electricity network systems. To decrease the chance of electrical shock only a trained electrician should perform the repairs. 

The most common repairs that  occur with an electrical meter box are:

• Hinges – if the hinges of the meter box are damaged then often replacing the broken hinges is all that is needed. The existing hinges will be removed and the new hinges installed correctly in the meter box.
• Meter Box Door – the door of the meter is important to close to ensure parts are not exposed to the weather or people. A broken door will be replaced with a new correctly sized meter box and installed to protect the systems inside.

Latch – a damaged latch needs to be replaced to ensure the door can open and shut correctly. Installing a new latch and handle will make certain the meter box is securely shut, adding a latch with a lock can occur as well. 

It is important to note that property owners are responsible for ensuring that a licensed electrician is contacted to repair the meter box. When it is an apartment or commercial space then the person in charge of the building or property maintenance will need to organise the repair.

There are specific factors involved in the relocation of the meter box to make sure it is in the correct and safe location. Below is a guide on the main considerations before a meter box relocation occurs:

• The meter box needs to be in a location that is easily accessible and not going through neighbours properties
• If there is a lock on the meter box door – make sure a key is easily accessible for the electrician
• There must be a clearance of at least two metres around the box
• Obstructions that are permanent, such as vegetation or walls should not sit in front of the meter box

The meter box is where a large range of electrical systems will be located to ensure they are together and in a safe place. The main systems that are commonly inside of a meter box are:

• Electricity meter – the electricity meter is what records the electricity usage of a property for the electricity supply network to know how much to charge. 
• Main switch – the main switch or electrical switchboard is what governs the different electrical systems of the building. These are installed so different systems can be isolated and power disconnected when needed. 

Fuse and Circuit Breaker – the fuses, safety switches, RCD switches and/or circuit breakers are installed in the meter box. Depending on the building and how many electrical systems there are will determine how many of these safety systems and what types are installed. They are all located in the meter box and will often have their own sub-board. 

For tasks, such as a switchboard upgrade, the meter box will need to either replaced or upgraded to fit the new systems. At times the current meter box is the correct size and shape for the new systems and often maintenance work, such as cleaning, will be needed.