DIY guidePower line to the house
Look at the power line to your house, and the branches near it
From the ground only: check the line from the pole, where it reaches the house, and the trees near it. The utility does any trimming.
- 5 to 10 min
- 4 steps
- Every step animated
4 steps
Tap a step to watch it again.
From the yard, follow the line from the pole to where it reaches your house, usually a short mast at the edge of the roof or a hook on the wall.
Look for branches touching or rubbing the line, a line hanging low, or one that looks frayed.
Check that the mast stands straight and that its pipe down the wall to the meter is held tight.
Branches touching the line, a leaning mast or a low line: keep away and call your utility. Trimming near a power line is their job.
Stay at least ten feet from the line, and never touch a branch that touches it. A line down or sparking: call 911.
What you need
- Binoculars, or a phone with a zoom
Call a pro if
- A branch touches or rubs the line
- The line hangs low or the mast leans
- Sparks, buzzing, or a line on the ground: call 911
Handyman says: Keep clear. Your utility trims it.
Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.
More outside and the yard guides
See all 72
Rather have
a pro do it?