Restoring Electrical Service After Flooding: A Step-by-Step Guide for CEMC Members
Following this week’s severe flooding, some CEMC members remain without power due to meters or electrical equipment being submerged by floodwaters. If your electric service has been disconnected for safety reasons, there are important steps you must take before we can reconnect your power.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your service safely restored:
1. Contact a Licensed Electrician
If your meter base or any part of your electrical system was underwater, a licensed electrician must inspect your home and make any necessary repairs. They’ll check for water damage and make repairs if needed to ensure your electrical system is safe and code-compliant.
Do not attempt to turn power back on yourself. Water-damaged equipment poses serious fire and shock hazards.
2. Obtain an Electrical Permit
Before CEMC can restore service, the State of Tennessee requires a permit and inspection on any system affected by flooding.
- You can apply online at core.tn.gov through the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance’s CORE system.
- Video tutorials created by CORE are available to guide you through setting up your account and applying for a permit.
3. Schedule an Inspection
Once your electrician has completed the necessary repairs and you’ve received your permit:
- A state-certified inspector will visit your home to ensure everything meets current safety standards.
- Once the inspection is passed, it will be reported in the state system and available for CEMC to verify.
4. Contact CEMC to Restore Service
After the inspection is completed and approved, call us at 800-987-2362 to notify us that your property is ready for reconnection. We will confirm inspection approval and restore service as soon as possible.
Need Help?
If you have any questions or need assistance during this process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is here to help you through recovery and ensure your home is reconnected safely.
Rest assured, safety is our top priority—for you, your family, and our crews. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work together to restore power safely following this week’s flooding.