Downed Electrical Lines

Most Arizonans know about the rainy monsoon season, but what many might not know is that we also have a rainy season in the winter, sometime in December or January. Although these aren't the savage haboobs, they can still be problematic because they can unleash a deluge of water. Our soil and foliage, unused to the sopping wet, can turn up rootbound trees, and overgrown branches will become top-heavy and split away from the tree. A branch or entire tree will land on a power line, producing immediate danger.

The role of the neighbor or city

For the unlucky homeowner, having a tree or branch fall on a power line that serves their area can be hugely dangerous, in addition to being inconvenient. It isn't even necessarily a tree from the homeowner's yard. For instance, if a tree is on a neighbor's or city property, and a branch from the tree falls on a power line, the city or neighbor is only responsible for the portion of the tree on their property. As soon as it flies off with a gust of wind or reaches into a residence, it is then the homeowner's responsibility.

Consequently, if a branch from a neighbor or common area touches the homeowner's power line where it could damage the insulation or dislodge the line from the pole, the homeowner is forced to deal with the problem before it becomes hazardous or breaks anything.

The power company

The power company is responsible for two things in the event of a downed power line. The first and foremost responsibility is the lines that run from pole to pole between houses. Second, they need to shut off the homeowner's power if they have the damaged or compromised line on his property. They're not responsible for anything more than that.

Their counsel? Do not plant a tree close to a power line. When the tree branches come within fifteen feet of the line or pole, have it cut back before it rains.

The time is now!

Professionals advise that trees get pruned late in the fall or at the least before spring. In the Phoenix area, spring sometimes comes early, which should be considered when scheduling a tree pruning service.

A note about pollarding

Pollarding is severely cutting back a deciduous tree to the point that it's nothing more than a trunk with some stumps coming out of it. Although this is a common practice, it can potentially reduce the tree's longevity by ten years.

Supposing a homeowner discovers themselves without any power because of a fallen tree or branch, or if they see that a tree or branch has fallen on their power lines, they should let the electric company know as soon as possible. While the power company's responsibilities don't reach beyond their power lines, the power must be shut off so an emergency tree or branch removal can be performed safely.

A.B.T. Electric is a licensed residential and commercial electrical contractor in Anthem, Az. We are committed to continuing expertise, safety,  and customer satisfaction. Call (623) 521-3939 today!