In addition to labor, your home’s unique electrical system and local laws can affect the final result. Here are several factors that can push you to the lower or higher end of the price range.
Material
On average, you’ll pay between $50 and $250 for the cost of a meter box. Additional installation tools, wiring, and fixtures can also add about $100. However, materials can cost up to $600 for homes with higher amperages.
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There are many instances where a home may benefit from access to higher amps. If you are installing a high-powered appliance, need to charge your electric vehicle or are building an addition to your home, you may need more amps to keep the lights on. Higher amps typically require a different meter and, therefore, a meter box. Here are some potential prices for a meter box alone:
100 amp meter box: $60 to $250 200 amp meter box: $100 to $700 400 amp meter box: $500 to $800
age
In some cases, an electrician may be able to repair or upgrade small parts of the meter box without requiring a complete replacement. However, many meters older than 25 years may not comply with local building codes. Homes older than 50 years may have a meter that contains mercury.
In either case, the old meters should be replaced for safety and efficiency. Alternatively, you may get a smart meter and a new meter box. A smart meter will read your electricity usage more closely and provide more detail about how you use energy in your home.
location
Choosing the right location for your meter box is critical to accurate readings and its safety. If the box was knocked over by a tree branch in a recent storm, you may want to consider moving it to a less vulnerable area. Also, if your meter box is now in an awkward location on your home (between your house and shed or behind a large tree, for example), replacing it will take longer and cost more.
Keep in mind that in most cases, meter boxes are attached to your electrical panel boxes. Moving a panel requires the cost of new wiring, which can range from $2 to $4 per linear foot, not including labor or the cost of structural changes to the home.
Allow
Any meter changes require the green light from your local utility company, often after an inspection. Once they approve the change, your electrician will issue permits to replace the outdoor meter box and any related work. Permit prices vary widely, but you should budget anywhere from $50 to $300 for permits alone.
Guarantees and insurance
Many meter brands offer free basic warranties on their electrical boxes in the event of a manufacturing defect. However, if you are replacing your meter box due to age, damage, or when you need an upgrade, the cost may not be covered.
In this case, you can also check to see if your home insurance plan will cover some of the replacement costs. For example, if lightning or fire damages the box, it may fall under your plan’s scope. Otherwise, check with your home insurance company to see what savings or coverage there is if you’ve already purchased one for such situations.
