What this due-diligence check covers
The utility may require a design, service application, load information, easements and customer-installed conduit or trenching.
Overhead and underground options have different clearing, maintenance, road-crossing and cost implications.
Why it matters before closing
A long extension or system upgrade can change site location, development budget and construction schedule.
Three levels of evidence
First question to resolve
Submit the parcel and preliminary load to the utility.
Proof to keep
Preserve utility work order or design and connect it to the exact parcel, proposed use and source date.
Escalation trigger
Nearest pole is not on the serving circuit. Ask: Where is the official service point?
What to verify
- Submit the parcel and preliminary load to the utility.
- Confirm the official service point and route.
- Separate utility charges from customer trench, conduit and panel work.
- Ask about refunds, allowances and expiration of estimates.
Red flags that deserve follow-up
- Nearest pole is not on the serving circuit.
- Required easement crosses neighboring land.
- Transformer or line upgrade excluded from early estimate.
- Rock trenching or road bore not priced.
Evidence to keep in the parcel file
- Utility work order or design
- Service-point map
- Customer-scope estimate
- Easement documents