Electrical Service Masts

When a storm hits and knocks out your power, the issue might be more than just downed lines, it could involve your home’s electrical service mast. But what exactly is a service mast, and what are you responsible for as a homeowner?

This guide clears the confusion with expert insight, practical tips, and must-know safety facts.

What Is an Electrical Service Mast?

An electrical service mast is the metal conduit that houses the wires connecting your home’s electrical panel to overhead power lines. It’s typically mounted on your roof and serves as the entry point for electricity into your home.

While the conductors inside the mast are owned by the utility company, the mast itself is your responsibility. That distinction becomes important if a tree limb or storm damages it—you may be responsible for repairs to the mast, while the utility handles the lines.

How Electricity Reaches Your Home

Most homes in Colorado receive 240-volt, alternating current (AC) service via a trio of conductors—two “hot” and one “neutral”—coming from a transformer. This setup, called the service drop, runs from the utility pole to your mast.

Key facts:

• Service drop conductors are always energized, they have no circuit breaker or fuse.
• Only licensed professionals or the utility company should handle repairs to these lines.

Ownership and Responsibility: Who Fixes What?

Ownership varies, but here’s a general breakdown:

• Utility Company: Owns the wires from the pole to the service point (often the meter).
• Homeowner: Owns the mast, meter enclosure, and any supporting hardware.

⚠️ In Colorado power companies like, Xcel Energy and United Power have slightly different policies. Always verify with your specific utility.

If damage occurs:

• Contact the utility to disconnect power safely.
• Hire a licensed electrician (like us!) to repair or replace the mast.

Code Compliance and Clearance Requirements

Overhead Clearance Guidelines

These clearances ensure safety and reliability:

📍 Clearance Location	📏 Minimum Required
Final grade (ground level)	12 feet
Sloped roof	3 feet (18 inches for shallow pitch)
Flat roof	8 feet
Balconies / Decks	10 feet
Streets / Driveways	18 feet
Swimming pools	22.5 ft high & 10 ft horizontal

📏 Colorado code typically aligns with the NEC (National Electrical Code), but municipalities may have stricter rules. We help ensure your setup is compliant wherever you live.

Service Mast Installation Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO:

• Use 2-inch rigid metal conduit (or as specified by local code).
• Properly flash roof penetrations with sealed roofing boots.
• Use guy wires or bracing for masts extending more than 36 inches above the roofline.
• Maintain vertical and horizontal clearances from windows, doors, and vegetation.

❌ DON’T:

• Attach phone, internet, or cable lines to the mast.
• Allow trees or branches to encroach on the service drop.
• Ignore signs of mast strain, leaning, damaged flashing, or pulled fasteners.

Flashing, Support, and Water Protection

Any roof-penetrating mast must have:

• Waterproof flashing and boots, correctly sealed and anchored.
• Bracing supports at a 45-degree angle if the mast height requires it.
• Conduit straps anchored every 3 feet inside the home.

Improper installation invites leaks, fire risk, and code violations. Always use a qualified electrician for repairs or new installations.

Your Electric Meter: What You Need to Know

While the meter itself belongs to the utility, the meter base and enclosure are your responsibility. These must:

• Be installed 4–6 feet above the ground.
• Use rain-tight hubs where the conduit enters.
• Never be accessed or opened without utility approval.

Tampering with the meter is illegal and dangerous.

Underground vs. Overhead: What’s Right for You?

In new developments or remodels, you may be offered the choice between underground power lines and overhead service:

• Overhead: Lower cost but exposed to weather.
• Underground: More reliable long-term but requires trenching.

The power company often decides the method, but we can help you prepare your home and site accordingly.

Need Repairs or a New Installation?

If your service mast is damaged or outdated, don’t wait. The Electricians are certified, insured, and locally trusted experts who can:

• Work with your utility company to safely manage disconnections.
• Replace or repair damaged masts to meet code.
• Help with insurance documentation after storm damage.

🧰 Need help fast? Contact us today to schedule an inspection or emergency repair.

Final Thoughts

Electrical service masts are often overlooked, until something goes wrong.

Knowing your responsibilities, maintaining safe clearances, and understanding when to call a professional can prevent serious hazards.

If you’re in the Denver metro area or beyond and need help with a mast repair or full electrical upgrade, trust the experts at The Electricians to do it safely and right. Call us today.