Why homeowners are responsible for many parts of their electrical system

DENVER ( KDVR ) — Xcel Energy customers are receiving information from a national home repair service plan provider that is offering coverage on electrical system components that may be affected by aging and wear and tear.

Many homeowners are not aware that they actually own part of their electrical system used by Xcel to deliver power. Repairs can result in a hefty bill.

“I need less bills at my age,” said one resident.

Mailers are being sent to Xcel customers by HomeServe , offering repair cost coverage for a $5.99 monthly fee.

In a statement provided to FOX31 Xcel Energy said, “As our customers’ trusted energy provider, the letter is meant to explain the protection plan’s value to customers – to minimize unexpected repairs on the customer side of the electric and natural gas meters.”

Xcel told FOX31 that homeowners are responsible for their weather head, insulator, riser, meter base and service entrance conductor.

HomeServe is the nationwide provider of home repair service plans working with more than 1,250 municipal and utility providers nationwide. Xcel told FOX31 it sold its HomeSmart service business to HomeServe because the other company has an “excellent track record of customer service and will offer customers a greater variety of product offerings to fit their needs.”

While some say it’s great to have the option of a protection plan for added peace of mind, others told FOX31 they will reserve judgement on whether they will need a plan.

“I’ve lived here for 40-plus years, and I have never had any problems with any of my equipment,” said one resident.

Older systems can be more likely to need repairs. Each customer should weigh their risk of damage and personal preferences when considering whether to purchase any home repair protection plan.

Xcel said that if its equipment is damaged by something like a storm, Xcel will make repairs without charge to the customer.

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