"For example, what would be the cost of replacing a 20' section of deteriorated SE cable from the taps to the meter? "
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If i find deteriorated SE cable, i charge almost as much as a service up grade, as soon as i remove the meter, i need an inspection, and i also have to bring up all the grounding, most of the time i find the meter is in an old socket with lugs ready to fall apart,now we need a meter pan, after years of hearing a customer say i just need a new piece of cable, i am still able to get a good laugh, what is not funny is the EC that will replace this piece of cable, and leave the rest a mess.