Understanding the cooperative vs. member responsibility

Beyond the responsibility to pay your bill on time, you might not ever think about how your utilities are delivered into your home. But if there is a storm or you have problems with your point of connection to the co-op's system, there are a few things you should know. The point of connection is where cooperative-owned and maintained equipment ends and the property owner’s equipment begins. Berkeley Electric is responsible for maintaining and repairing equipment up to this point of connection.

It is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain and repair equipment beyond the point of connection. Berkeley Electric Cooperative cannot perform work beyond this point because the equipment is owned by the member. At the point of connection, Berkeley Electric and the memberer operate under two different safety codes. If you need work done to your side of the equipment, please contact a licensed electrician to make sure it is completed to code.

Are you planning to make repairs to your equipment? Call 811 before you dig. It’s the law!

Where is my Point of Connection?

The diagrams below illustrate the typical utility services for residential homes. The configuration or ownership of lines, poles and connections can vary, for example depending on the type of service you have.

The point of connection is where cooperative-owned and maintained equipment ends and the member’s equipment begins:

  • Berkeley Electric is responsible for maintaining and repairing equipment up to this point of connection.
  • It is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain and repair equipment beyond the point of connection.
  • Please note - if the weatherhead is damaged the owner must have it repaired and approved by local code officials before the cooperative can restore service.

 

diagram illustrating member responsibility on overhead system

The point of connection is where cooperative-owned and maintained equipment ends and the member’s equipment begins:

  • Berkeley Electric is responsible for maintaining and repairing equipment up to this point of connection.
  • It is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain and repair equipment beyond the point of connection.

 

diagram illustrating member responsibility on underground system