Following are answers to common questions about UNITYSM multiple utility installation service.
Q. How will I know when UNITY service will be installed?
We will attempt to contact you by phone the day before installation is scheduled to start. Our commitment to prompt service comes with a guarantee that we will pay you $100 if work has not begun within seven working days, starting from the first work day following the order.
Q. Is there a charge for natural gas?
Gas installation is always part of UNITY and is included in our standard charges. If the gas service cannot be installed in the Unity trench, then additional charges apply.
In the case of customer-installed conduit, the customer must install conduit for both electric and gas lines or additional charges will apply. Gas conduit is available though NW Natural by calling 503-226-4211 ext. 4433.
Q. What does UNITY service include?
The following services are provided with UNITY:
- Trenching and backfilling under normal conditions. (Properties with excessive slopes, rock excavations, sensitive landscape or water conditions may be excluded.)
- Coordinating the installation of electric, gas, cable TV and telephone lines in one trench, at one time.
- Setting the gas meter, ready for customers to light. (A large home may require a two pound gas meter and additional installation time after the original crew has installed the line.)
- Removing the temporary service unit.
- Installing the permanent pedestal cover.
- Energizing electrical service.
Q. What is PGE’s guarantee on UNITY service telephone and cable TV installation?
PGE will be responsible for the integrity of the cable for five working days after your service guarantee date.
Q. What is involved when the customer installs the conduit?
The customer digs a 36-inch-deep trench and installs a 3-inch Schedule 40 conduit (electrical gray) for the electric service. For the gas line, the customer installs a 1 1/2-inch (yellow) conduit, with a depth of 18 inches at each end. Gas lines must have markers identifying each end of the conduit. Conduits and pull strings must be provided for electric service. There is no charge for UNITY service when customer trenches and installs conduit. In these situations, installation of phone and cable TV will be the customer’s responsibility.
Q. What’s the difference between a short-side and cross-lot trench?
A short-side trench runs from the house, perpendicular to the street. In a cross-lot trench, the ditch runs diagonally across the front or back of the property. See the illustrations below.
Short-side trench
Cross-lot trench
Q. Can I have more than one service drop for my telephone?
Yes. The fee is $60 for each additional drop.
Q. If I’m having UNITY service, can I run the gas line cross-lot?
Yes.
Q. If my gas line is already installed, can I have UNITY service installed?
No.
