Frequently Asked Questions - I'm Building (My Home)

How much lead-time should I consider when applying for new service?

We suggest that as soon as you know that you will be building a new home; call us to apply for gas and/or electric service. It is hard to determine the lead-time due to the many variables when considering a construction schedule. Some of these variables include: delays due to weather, heavy workloads, equipment breakdown, outages due to storms, etc.

Back to Top

What information do I need to provide when applying for new service?

When applying for service, the following information is required:

• Name(s) of person to be billed (first name, middle initial and last name)
• Current mailing address and phone number of the person to be billed.
• Service address (if address is not available, the closest neighbor's address or an electric pole number)
• Employer or source of income
• Social security number or tax ID (optional, but preferred)
• Copy of the septic permit if building in a rural area
• Size of the electric service entrance (amps)
• Signed site sketch/Liability waiver form with the following information included on the sketch:
  • Desired location of the gas and electric meters
  • Setback distance from the road
  • Well, septic and drain field locations (both primary and alternate)
  • Location of future decks, garage or other out buildings

Back to Top

How do I obtain a Site Sketch and Liability Waiver Form as well as other forms that I may need when applying for gas or electric service?

The forms and references you need when applying for gas and/or electric service can be found on our Web Site.

Back to Top

Where is the best location for my gas and electric meter? Are there any requirements?

The ideal location for the gas and electric meter is 3 feet beyond the corner of your home. By having the gas and electric meter located together, or being jointly installed, the installation costs may be reduced or eliminated.

There are code requirements in regard to the location of your gas meter from windows, make-up air (from appliances like a furnace water heater), or fresh air intake. Also, the electric meter needs to be at least 3 or 4 feet from the gas meter depending upon the side it's on. We recommend that you discuss these issues with your electrician or heating contractor in order to identify the best location for each meter.

Back to Top

Can I run my electric service to the back of the house?

The customer has the option to run the electric service to just about any location on the house. When extending the electric service, you should consider any future additions or modifications to your house, so you avoid additional costs to relocate that electric facility due to poor planning.

Back to Top

I need an emergency locate. Who should I call and how long will it take to get someone on site?

If you need an emergency locate, call Diggers Hotline at 811. Diggers Hotline will take the necessary information and pass it on to the appropriate energy company to complete the locates.

The time that it takes to have an emergency locate will depend upon what the emergency is. The urgency will be determined by Diggers Hotline, and the locate will be completed according to the degree of that emergency.

Back to Top

What is the cost for new gas and electric service installation?

The cost for new service varies depending on a number of factors. Some factors include the distance from our distribution natural gas pipes or electric lines, and customer preferences for underground or overhead service and meter location. Generally, after submitting an application for service and a site sketch/liability waiver form, we will send a Designer to the proposed site to determine an accurate cost projection.

Back to Top

How do I obtain a cost estimate if I want to upgrade or relocate my electric service?

Before calling Wisconsin Public Service for an estimate, we suggest you contact a local electrician to review upgrade requirements or changes that will be needed on your electric service facilities. Once you get the information from your electrician, call WPSC to apply for an upgrade or relocation estimate and provide a site sketch/liability waiver form. A Designer will be assigned to your request and provide you with an estimate.

Back to Top

What if I need to meet your Designer on site to discuss the electric/gas route, how do I contact him?

If you need to meet our designer on site to discuss the gas/electric location and routing of facilities, e-mail New Service Installation with your request. If an application and a site sketch/liability waiver form have been submitted previously, we'll take your request and pass it on to the Designer.

Back to Top

Do you have any incentives or rebates for new home construction?

Wisconsin Public Service does not offer an incentive program for new homes. There are programs available through Focus on Energy. Call 800-762-7077 to find out what programs are available for new homes or visit their Web site at focusonenergy.com The Focus on Energy Web site will walk you through the various programs and eligibility requirements.

Back to Top

My heating contractor has suggested that we convert to natural gas for heating. Are there any conversion requirements?

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin mandated that all homes built prior to 1978 must meet a minimum Structural Compliance requirement. These requirements include minimum levels of insulation in the attic and sill boxes. The exterior windows need storm windows and/or double pains of glass. The weather-stripping around the doors and windows must be in good shape. You can call Wisconsin Public Service to have a compliance appraisal completed on your home at no cost to you.

Back to Top

Do I need an electrical inspection of my wiring before you install my service and set the meter?

An inspection by a State of Wisconsin certified inspector is required for all new one and two family homes. For service relocates and service upgrades, requirements by local Municipalities vary. Always check with the local Municipality to determine their requirements for either an inspection or a Certificate of Compliance from the electrician.

Back to Top

I have permission from my neighbor to cross their property with electric service for my home. Will I need something in writing from him?

Before we can install electric service across your neighbor's property, you need to provide an Easement. This legal document specifically gives the legal land description and the description of the area needed to install our gas and/or electric facilities. Once this document is signed and notarized, it will be recorded as a permanent record in the local courthouse. When that process is complete, we can move forward with your project.

Back to Top