An underground electrical service upgrade gets rid of exposed overhead lines and gives your home a cleaner, more protected connection. If you're replacing an aging overhead system or getting ready for a panel upgrade, knowing what the job involves helps you avoid surprises and plan your budget.
What's Actually Included in an Underground Service Upgrade?
Every project is different, but here's a breakdown of what Peach Electric typically provides, and why it matters.
1. Pre-Construction Planning and Utility Coordination
- Pre-inspection walks with your electrical utility
- Pre-construction meeting to review trench layout and panel details
- Inspection coordination with the city or local authority
These early steps keep the project compliant and on schedule.
2. Trenching and Conduit Work
- Trench from the Main Service Panel (MSP) to the utility point of connection
- Install 2-inch to 3-inch PVC conduit using Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 as required by code
- Lay utility-grade sand for conduit protection when required
- Perform a mandrel test to check conduit integrity
- Backfill the trench with clean sand and gravel, and restore the site as needed
3. Secondary Equipment Installation
- Install the secondary utility box and matching cover
- Provide rock or gravel bedding for support
4. Special Site Considerations
- Saw cut concrete or asphalt when trenching crosses paved areas
- Tree root and canopy protection per local codes. Many jurisdictions have detailed regulations around grading, trenching, or disturbing soil near protected trees. Violating these can result in fines, project delays, or required restoration work.
- Secure open trenches to minimize site liability during delays or inspection windows
These details may seem small, but each step plays a part in passing inspection and maintaining safety.
5. Utility Application and Design Advocacy
One of the most valuable but least visible parts of the job happens behind the scenes: coordinating with the utility during the design process.
We don't just submit applications. We stay in contact with the utility to get specific items approved that benefit the homeowner. In the past, we've seen jobs get approved in ways that were not ideal for the client, often due to inexperience with utility design standards or a lack of understanding about what alternatives were available. That can lead to:
- Longer trench routes than necessary
- Inconvenient meter locations
- Higher long-term costs from avoidable decisions
With Peach Electric, you get a team that understands what to ask for and how to advocate for your best outcome.
Financing Options
This isn't a small project. That's why we offer flexible financing options so you can get the work done right without putting it off.
Ready to Talk About Your Project?
If you've already gotten other quotes or you're just starting to look into it, we're happy to walk you through the process and explain what's included. Reach out to Peach Electric for a free, upfront estimate.