What is the meter move out program?
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has directed all natural gas distribution companies, which includes Columbia Gas, to locate all gas meters and regulators outside and above ground, with limited exceptions. The meter move-out program was implemented by Columbia Gas to comply with this requirement.
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Here are frequently asked questions we receive about
When and how long will my gas be turned off?
Your gas service will be temporarily turned off when we come to work on your meter. This outage will be brief, usually between 2–4 hours. Once we’re done, we will need to get back inside your home or business so we can perform a safety check of your natural gas appliances and inside gas lines, turn on your gas and relight your appliances. Note: Someone 18 years or older must be at your home or business and pets must be secured when we’re there to work on your meter and turn your gas back on.
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I'm not a customer; will my home or business be affected?
If you receive communication from us about a project in your area, your home or business may be impacted by construction activity in your area.
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How do I know everything will be restored to its existing condition?
At the start of the project, we document your property’s current state. We may even capture photos or video footage.
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Will you block my street or driveway?
We may temporarily block access to an entire street, lane or even a driveway. If you need access to your driveway, let our crews know. When it is safe to do so, they will accommodate your request. Most of our digging will be in the grassy part of the public right-of-way and yards, but often our equipment is in the street while we are working. We will work with neighborhoods to minimize road closures and blockages, but please be alert and use caution around our work zones.
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Will I have to pay extra for this project?
No, you won’t have to pay specifically for this improvement project in your neighborhood. The cost of building, maintaining and upgrading our gas line system is shared by all customers and is part of your monthly bill.
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How will this project impact my historic neighborhood?
We will coordinate with local historic preservation officials so that our work complies with local guidelines, restrictions and permitting requirements.
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Why are you replacing the natural gas lines in my neighborhood?
We're committed to providing safe and reliable service at your home or business. While the current system has performed well, it’s time to replace the natural gas lines with newer materials that will serve your community for many years to come.
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Will my gas service be interrupted?
Your gas service may be briefly interrupted by this work. If so, we will contact you to schedule the work and make arrangements to test your house lines, perform a safety check and re-establish your service.
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During what time of day will work usually take place?
Construction will primarily take place from about 8:30 a.m. until approximately 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
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How can I identify your employees and contractors?
All our employees and contractors can be identified by marked vehicles. They also carry a photo ID.
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Will you need to dig up my yard, sidewalk or driveway, and if you do, who’s going to fix it?
Because all natural gas pipelines are buried, some digging will be necessary. We will try to minimize the amount of digging required. If we disturb your yard, sidewalk and/or driveway, we will repair affected areas as soon as weather permits. Initial restoration, such as leveling of surfaces, will be completed as the project progresses.
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How long will this take?
Many factors, including weather, can impact the construction schedule for our projects. Our goal is to complete these projects in a timely manner and minimize your inconvenience.
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How will I be notified when you need to get inside my home or business?
Yes, once we’re in that phase of the project, we will contact you to discuss the required work inside your home or business. If you aren’t available at that time, a door tag will be left with contact information to schedule an appointment.
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For more info
Contact us for more information about our projects.