20160127Complaint.pdf

December zL't,2OLS
Eric W. Conrad
2277 Hendricks Circle
Rexburg, lD 83440
208-207-6692
ericwcon rad @gmail.com
Public Utility Commission Secretary
Jean Jewell
472 West Washington Street
P.O. Box 83720
Boise,lD 83720-0074
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Dear PUC:
Having held senior management positions at AT&T, U S WEST, AIMCO and CB Richard Ellis I know that
working through the PUC is sometimes the only way to get the attention of large monopolistic
companies.
Per Rule 54 | am making a complaint on behalf of myself (Owner of new property at2277 Hendricks
Circle) and all other new home owners in the counties of Freemont, Madison, Bonneville, Bingham and
Caribou counties who have been required to install snow covers for gas meters.
01) Respondent
a. lntermountain Gas Company
02) State the Facts
a. lntermountain Gas Company is requiring covers for gas meters inconsistently across
their coverage area.
b. No public facing information for owners or builders is available to understand what is
required to meet their requirements and to estimate the costs of such a requirement.
03) Applicable Provisions
a. After multiple inquiries to lntermountain Gas for clarification on what would be an
acceptable roof over the gas meter I contacted the PUC for help. An informal request
was made to lntermountain Gas by Johnathan Farley for clarification. Johnathan was
able to obtain IGC Procedures # 4017 (Attached) and Part 192 Transportation of Natural
and other gas by Pipeline (Attached). Both of these documents are internal documents
to lntermountain Gas and are nowhere to be found in the public domain.
b. Procedures #40L7 states the following:
i. "Protected by gutter or eave line if possible."
ii. "On the gable end if possible"
iii. "lGC will provide protection for meter sets when required."
iv. "When heavy or deep snow conditions exist, a higher aspect meter set that
exceeds the height of a standard installation should be a consideration"
c. Part 192 states the following:i. "Be rain and insect resistant"
ii. "Be protected from damage caused by submergence in areas where flooding
may occur"
iii. "Each meter and each regulator must be installed so as to minimize anticipated
stresses upon the connecting piping and the meter."
04) State the Relief Desired:
a. Compensation of SZZO for Gas Cover and 5150 in Labor for installation + 51,010.82 in
construction loan interest because work had to be pushed off inside the home because
of no heat.
b. Review by PUC into lntermountain Gas Practices of requiring roofs over gas meters in an
inconsistent manner and with no public facing information for owners or builders to
know what is acceptable.
05) Process: I am willing to travel to Boise at my expense to testif,/ or work through the PUC in
anyway the PUC deems necessary to fix this problem.
As Ever,
EtJ il-
Eric W. Conrad
PART I92. TRAIYSPORTATION OFNATURAL ANDOTEER GAS BY
PIPELINE: MINIMUM T.EDERAL SATETY STANDARDS
Subpart H-€ustomer Meters, Servlce
Regulrtors, rnd Servlce Llnec
$192351 Scopa
This subpart prescribes minimum re-
quirements for installing customer met€rs,
service regulators, service lincs, service line
valves, and sorvicc line connections to
mains.
lP*t192 - Org., Aug. 19, 19701
$192353 Customer meters and reguta-
torc: Locrtlon.
(a) Each mcter and service rcgulator,
whether insidc or outside a building, must
be installed in a readilyaccessible location
and bo protocted from conosion and other
d+qtflgor including, if installed outside a
building, vehicular damage that may bc an-
ticipated. However, thc upsteam regulator
in a scrias may bc buried"
(b) Each service regulator installed
within a building must be located as near as
practical to the point of service line en-
tranoe.
(c) Each meter installed within a build-
ing must be located in a vcntilated place and
not less than 3 feet (914 millimeters) from
any source of ignition or any source of heat
whichmidlt damage the meter.
(d) Where feasible, the upsfream regula-
tor in a series must be located outside the
building, unless it is located in a separate
metering or regulating building.
[Part 192 - Org., Aug. 19, 1970, as amended
byAmdt. 192-85,63 FR 37500, July 13,
1998; Amdt.192-93,68 FR 53895, Sept.
15,20031
$192355 Customer meters and regule-
tors: Protectlon from dlmrge.
(a) Protection from vacuun or back
pressurc. If the customet's equipment might
create either a vacuum or a back pressure, a
device must be installed to protect the sys-
tem.
(b) Service regulator vents and relief
vents. Service regulator vents and relief
vents must terminsto outdoors, and the out-
door terminal must:
(l) Bs rain ond inseot rcsisunt;
(2) Be located at aplace where gas from
tho vont can oscape freely into the atrtos-
pher€ and away from any opening into the
building; and,
(3) Be protccM from daurage caused by
submergenco in arcas wherc flooding may
oocur.
(c) Pits and vaults. Each pit or vault that
houses a customer meter or regulator at a
place where vehicular faffic is anticipated,
must be able to support that traffic.
[Part 192 - ftg., Aug. 19, 1970, as ame'nded
byAmdt. 192-58,53 FR 1633, Jan.2l,
le88I
$192.357 Customer meters and regula-
torr: Instellsffon.
(a) Each ruetcr urd oach rcgulator must
be installed so as to minimizo,antioipated
s&ssgs upon the connectingpiping and the
meter.
(b) When close all-thread nipples are
use{ the wall thicJmess reuraining after the
threads are cut must meet the minimum
wall thickness requirements of this part.
(c) Connections made of lead or other
easily damaged material may not be used in
the installation of meters or regulatorc.
Revision 12108 - Current thru 192-108 s8,lt46
409.2 Meter valve. Every meter shall be equipped with a
shutoff valve located on the supply side of the meter.
409.3 Shutoff valves for multiple-house line systems.
Where a single meter is used to supply gas to more than one
building or tenant, a separate shutoff valve shall be provided
for each building or tenant.
409.3.1 Multiple tenant buildings. In multiple tenant
buildings, where a common prping system is installed to
supply other than one- and two-family dwellings, shutoff
valves shall be provided for each tenant. Each tenant shall
have access to the shutoff valve serving that tenant's
space.
409,3.2 Individual buildings. In a common system serv-
ing more than one building, shutoff valves shall be
installed outdoors at each building.
409.3.3 Identificatlon of shutoff valves. Each house line
shutoff valve shall be plainly marked with an identifica-
tion tag attached by the installer so that the piping systems
supplied by such valves are readily identified.
409.4 MP regulator yalves. A listed shutoff valve shall be
installed immediately ahead of each MP regulator.
409.5 Appliance shutoffvalve, Each appliance shall be pro-
vided with a shutoff valve in accordance with Section
409.5.1, 409.5.2 or 409.5.3.
409.5.1 Located withln same room. The shutoff valve
shall be located in the same room as the appliance. The
shutoff valve shall be within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the
appliance, and shall be installed upstream of the union,
connector or quick disconnect device it serves. Such shut-
off valves shall be provided with access. Appliance shlt-off valves located in the firebox of a fireplace shall be
installed in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's
instructions.
409.5,2 Vented decoratlve appliances and room heat-
ers. Shutoff valves for vented decorative appliances, room
heaters and decorative appliances for installation in vented
fireplaces shall be permitted to be installed in an area
remote from the appliances where such valves are pro-
vided with ready access, Such valves shall be permanently
identified and shall serve no other appliance. The piping
from the shutoff valve to within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the
appliance shall be designed, sized and installed in accor-
dance with Sections 401 through 408,
409.5.3 Located at manlfold. Where the appliance shut-
off valve is installed at a manifold, such shutoff valve shall
be located within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of the appliance
served and shall be readily accessible and permanently
identified. The piping from the manifold to within 6 feet
(1829 mm) of the appliance shall be designed, sized and
installed in accordance with Sections 401 through 408.
409.6 Shutoff yalve for laboratories. Where provided with
two or more fuel gas outlets, including table-, bench- and
hood-mounted outlets, each laboratory space in educational,
research, commercial and industrial occupancies shall be pro-
vided with a single dedicated shutoff valve through which all
such gas outlets shall be supplied. The dedicated shutoff
valve shall be readily accessible, located within the labora-
2Ol2INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAg CODE6
GAS PIPING INSTALLATIONS
tory space served, located adjacent to the egress door from
the space and shall be identified by approved signage stating
"Gas Shutoff."
sEcTtoN 410 (tFcc)
FLOW CONTROLS
410.1 Pressure regulators. A line pressure regulator shall be
installed where the appliance is designed to operate at a
lower pressure thrur the supply pressure. Line gas pressure
regulators shall be listed as courplying with ANSI 22180.
rlccess shall be provided to pressure regulators. Pressure reg-
ulators shall be protecred from physical darnage, Regulators
instnlled on the exterior of the building shall be uptrtrrned for
outdoor installation.
410.2 MP regulators. MP pressure regulators shall comply
with the following:
l. The MP regulator shall be approved and shall be suit-
able for the inlet and outlet gas pressures for the appli-
cation.
2. The MP regulator shall maintain a reduced outlet pres-
sure under lockup (no-flow) conditions.
3. The capacity of the MP regulator, determined by pub-
lished ratings of its manufacturer, shall be adequate to
supply the appliances served.
4. The MP pressure regulator shall be provided with
access. Where located indoors, the regulator shall be
vented to the outdoors or shall be equipped with a leak-
limiting device, in either case complying with Section
410.3.
5. A tee fitting with one opening capped or plugged shall
be installed between the MP regulator and its upstream
shutoff valve. Such tee fitting shall be positioned to
allow connection of a pressure-measuring instrument
and to serve as a sediment trap.
6. A tee fiuing with one opening capped or plugged shall
be installed not less than l0 pipe diameters downstreamof the MP regulator outlet. Such tee fitting shall be
positioned to allow connection of a pressure-measuring
instrument.
410.3 Venting of regulators. Pressure regulators that require
a vent shall be vented directly to the outdoors. The vent shall
be designed to prevent the entry of insects, water and fbreign
objects.
Exception: A vent to the outdoors is not required fbr regu-
lators equipped with and labeled fbr utilization with an
approved ventJimiting device installed in accordance with
the manufacturer' s instructions.
410.3.1 Vent piping. Yent piping for relief vents and
breather vents shall be constructed of materials allowed
for gas piping in accordance with Section 403.Yentpiping
shall be not smaller than the vent connection on the pres-
sure regulating device. Yent piping serving relief vents
and combination relief and breather vents shall be run
independently to the outdoors and shall serve only a single
device vent. Yent piping serving only breather vents is
permitted to be connected in a manifold arrangement
,. | ).,
Home > Operations Procedures [3000/40001 > DOT Required > Customer Meters.
Service Resulators and Service Lines > Siting Service Lines and Meter Sets [4017]
IGC PROGEDURES
DATE: 01131105
TITLE: Siting Seruice Lines and Meter Sets
NUMBER:4017
REFERENCES I PURPOSE ISCOPE IGENERAL I RESPONS|BtLtTy ISTANDARDS ISERVICE LOCATTONS IMETER LOCATTONS IEXAMPLES
REFERENCES
Regulotions
IGC General Service Provisions
49 CFR 192, 351, 353, 355, 357
Policy
501 Gas Delivery Pressure
Procedures
4019 Curb and Other Property Line Valves
4015 Upstream Regulation of High Pressure Service Lines (Farm Taps)
4016 Roof Top Distribution System
9375 Service Line lnstallations
4026 P.E. Plastic Pipe System Design and lnstallation
PURPOSE
Provide proper guidelines for determining service line, meter set, and riser locations
and routes for the service line that are acceptable and safe under the General Service
Provisions and applicable safety, building codes and operating policies.
SCOPE
Applies to all Company personne! assigned the responsibility of selecting service line
routes and meter locations.
GENERAL
Service lines will be installed at the minimum total length necessary to conform with
Company requirements regarding meter set locations.
The criteria for service lines to be installed in conjunction with new mains is contained
in Procedure 9371 Plant Additions-Revenue.
\Men a service line cannot be located according to the requirements of this
Procedure, contact the Operations/Division/District Manager for instructions.
As described in Section A, Paragrapn 12.9 of the Genera! Service Provisions, a
second service line will be installed for a customer only when the second location is
justified and more than flfty (50) feet from the existing service !ine. See also 4016,
Rooftop Distribution Systems, and 9375, Service Line lnstallation.
Meter sets wil! be located along the wall of the structure least susceptible to future
building, fencing or
other additions. Residential meter sets wil! not be located in the rear of the dwelling,
unless circumstances are such that the rear of the dwelling is the most feasible and
desirable location available
(townhouses, alley distribution system, etc.). When a Service Line application shows
a rear meter location, an explanation of the conditions requiring such a location must
be included on the 512-A. This explanation will be reviewed and accepted by the
Marketing Manager and submitted to the Regional/Division/District Manager for
approval prior to installation of the service line.
RESPONSIBILITY
The Operations Managers are responsible for the administration of this Procedure.
STANDARDS
A. Selecting Service Locations
1. Precautions to take regarding service locations
a. \Mren possible, select a termination location for the service line
that is at least twelve inches (12") from other underground
facilities. lf it is a joint trench service line, ensure that the
service is installed according to joint trench specifications.
b. Do not run plastic systems within the influencing area of any
system that radiates temperatures above 100o F. lf there is a
concern that this may occur, contact General Office
Engineering for necessary calculations.
ffien paralleling a foundation for more than five (5) feet, select a
location for the service line at least three (3) feet from the foundation,
whenever possible. lf a basement has been excavated, and there
could be excessive soil settling, the service should be run outside of
the disturbed soil area.
Whenever paralleling a sidewalk or retaining wall and if possible,
select a location at least one (1) foot from the sidewalk and three (3)
feet from the retaining wall, when possible.
Select service line locations so that adjacent private propefi is not
crossed unless a properly executed right-of-way agreement is
obtained.
\Mrenever possible, avoid selecting line locations where the service
will pass under concrete slabs, carports or through retaining walls.
Avoid periodic maintenance areas over septic tanks, oil and gasoline
tanks etc.
Whenever possible install service line locations so that the service line
will run in a straight line from the stub or tee to the service line riser
location.
Consider possible future additions to the propefi and locate the
service so that it will not be built over or have the meter location fenced
in at a later date.
Any service lines running under a building will be encased. The casing
will be sealed and vented to the outside at the point where it enters the
building. Service lines will not be installed under a building without
Operations Manager approval.
C. Riser and Meter Set Locations
1. Position the riser and meter set in a readily accessible location. The meter
and meter stop must be easily accessed in case of emergencies and for routine
maintenance and meter reading.
1. When possiblefi select a location outside an area that is, or may be fenced.
2.
4.
o.
7.
8.
a. As close to stub or main as possible.
The meter shal! be located at the point on the structure:
lf main line is in the front of the structure; place riser as close
as possible to the front of the structure; however, the service
riser and meter shall be located at least 18" horizontally from
an electricalmeter. (See Example 1) (Most common distance is
four (4) feet.)
lf main line is behind the house; place the riser at the closest
point in the back of the structure maintaining the 18" horizontal
distance from the electrical meter or service panel.
1. Manifolds shall be located in the same manner as single meters and allow for
the required width for the number and size of the meters. !f a stack manifold is
required, the upper portion shall be secured to the structure during installation.
1. \Mren the meter and service regulator will be installed outside the building,
select location of service line riser to meet the following:
\Mrere a main customer valve is used, an additional 3" to 4"
shall be needed for house line installation. Large meter sets
shall be sited as needed for clearance.
Do not locate under or in front of windows or other building
openings which may be used as emergency fire exits or under
interior or exterior stairways.
When the service line riser is on the driveway side of a
dwelling, at least three (3) feet of spacing between the
driveway and the building is necessary. Additional protection
will be provided, such as a meter guard. (See Example 5)
Where a service line riser is likely to be set in paving of any
kind, a short piece of two inch (2") or larger P.E. pipe will be
used to sleeve the pipe at ground level.
When a meter is set outside a school, a permanently locked
fence or enclosure may be provided by the Company.
g. \Mren locating a riser for a large meter set, adequate space
and access shal! be provided to allow for normal maintenance
and testing.
1. Select location for service line and service line riser and meter set for large
commercial and industrial services to meet the following additional requirements:
b.
d.
A
When the service line will parallelthe foundation, a minimum of
five (5) feet clearance from the building will be maintained.
The meter will not be located directly underneath and wil! have
at least three (3) feet minimum horizontal clearance from an
electric panel, air intake or any equipment that could possibly
be a source of ignition.
Space requirements for large meter sets will be determined
from the meter set design. See specified or standard meter set
drawings.
Wtten meters are set outside a school, a permanent locked
fence or enclosure may be provided by the Company.
e. When meters are set outside a church and extra security is
necessary, a permanent locked fence or enclosure, with IGC
access, is to be provided by the customer.
1. When the meter and service regulator will be set inside the building, the
location for the service line riser will meet the following requirements:
1. NOTE: Written approval must be obtained from the Operations Manager for any
inside meter set. That approval must be attached to the asbuilt drawing on Form
512-A or 319.
a. The service line riser, meter stop and service line entrance into the building
will be as near as practicable to the meter and regulator location.
b. Wren possible, the service line riser and meter stop will be above ground
outside the building and the entrance of the service line into the building will be
above ground with a readily accessible outside shut-off valve.
c. Any service entrance into the building below ground will incorporate an
outside curbvalve and will be cased and the casing sealed at the points the
service line enters and exits the casing. The casing must be vented to the
outside atmosphere.
d. All regulators located inside a building must be located in a ventilated area
and not less than three feet from any source of ignition or heat which could
damage the meter. All inside regulators will be vented separately to the outside
of the structure and installed to prevent water buildup and entry of insects and
debris.
e. A meter and regulator installed in a recessed opening is considered an
outside meter set if the following conditions are met:
i. The recess has an exterior wall
ii. The service line enters the recess above ground (over
the sill)
iii. The recess is lined with fireproof and vapor-proof
material
1. Any service line riser cannot be located to meet the requirements of this
Procedure shall be referred to the Operations/District Manager.
NOTE: IGC will provide protective steel posts for the meter set, when required, where
no protection is provided by the customer. Adequate meter protection consists of
either the company approved meter guard, (Example 5) a two inch (2") or four inch
(4") diameter post, or a permanent protective wall.
1. No meter or service regulator will be located in a pit or vault. Contact the
Operations Manager for alternative locations.
1. When services and meters are on a rooftop system, see Procedure 4016
Rooftop Distribution Systems, for requirements.
1. Meters installed on manufactured housing where flex connectors are utilized
shall have the meter bar assembly stabilized by use of a meter bar support.
C. Riser and Meter Set Height
1. Standard installation height shall be achieved when the bottom of the stop
equals the height of foundation. (Caution should be taken to ensure the bury line on
the riser is not below future grade). (See Example 6)
2. lnstallation height of larger meters and meters installed on multilevel
foundations shall be accomplished by determining future grade according to building
specification. This may be determined by:
a. Contacting builder
b. Reviewing plans
c. Future grade indicators that exist or are apparent.
C. Riser and Meter Height - Heavy or Deep Snow Area's
1. When heavy or deep snow conditions exist, a higher aspect meter set that
exceeds thqheight of a standard installation should be a consideration. (See
Example 4)
2. ln deep snow areas, snow sliding off the roof should also be considered a
damaging force. Snow shields shall be installed if necessary.
3. lf a safe meter location can not be identified on a home or building, an
engineered structure that allows adequate ventilation and is designed to meet the
potential snow load can be used to protect the meter and must be in'place prior to
service being activated.
4. lf an engineered structure for meter protection is used, an engineer's
signature will be needed approving the structure's design and ability to protect the
meter from snow and ice. (See Example # 7 Approval of Engineered Design for Meter
Protection.) This approval shall be signed and added to the asbuilt and added to
Scanned lmages with the asbuilt
D. Regulator Venting Requirements
1. Regulators shall be installed vertically with the vent pointed downward
2. Regulators that cannot be installed with vent pointed downward shall have
additionalvent piping installed to ensure downward venting
3. Vents will be screened or have caps installed to prevent entry of water,
insects, debris, or foreign objects
4. ln high snow aspect areas vents will be extended to above the anticipated
snow level
5. Extended vent piping will be placed in such a position to prevent entry of
water, insects, debris, or foreign objects and protected from heavy snow or water run
off
6. Vent piping will be sized according to the size of the vent opening on the
regulator
7. Vent piping will be secured as necessary
8. lf a meter set is located within three (3) feet of any air intake which is
permanently opened into a structure, the regulator will be vented remotely from the
area. Note: Windows, whether operable or non-operable, are not considered an air
intake.
9. Meter locations protected under roof valleys and eaves where run off due to
rain and snow may affect the regulator vent shall have the regulator vent piping
extended to a protected location
10. All inside regulators shall be vented separately to the outside of the structure
and installed to prevent water buildup and entry of insects and debris
E. Meter Stop Valve lnstallation and Replacements
1. Service riser applications sized 3/" through 2" (single meter and manifolds)
operating at 60 psig or less shall use a valve stop with an insulating union
incorporated in the body of the stop
2. Greater than 60 psig operating pressure - High pressure installations shall
require
a. Non insulated stop.
b. lnsulation shall be obtained by one of the following:
i. lnsulating union downstream of the secondary pressure
regulator
ii. Flange gasket insulators at the flanges (2) of a flanged
by-pass riser
2. Maintenance - ln the course of performing maintenance to resolve leaking
spuds or to remediate cathodic protection issues at the meter set assembly, the
following actions should be performed where applicable:
a. Replace a non-insulated valve stop with an insulated valve stop,
b. Replace meter loop assembly with a pre fabricated meter loop incorporating
a customer valve in the meter loop and non-insulated spuds.
c. Replace a non-insulated valve stop with an insulated valve stop without a pre
fabricated meter loop when alignment with existing house piping is not feasible.
EXAMPLES
EXAMPLE 1
Distance from Electrical Meter
EXAMPLE 2
Flex Riser
EMMPLE 3
Support Assembly
EXAMPLE 4
High Aspect Riser
EXAMPLE 5
Meter Guard
EXAMPLE 6
Standard Meter !nstallation
EXAMPLE 7
Approvalof Engineered Design for Meter Protection
4017 - Siting Service Lines and Meter Sets
'Gmail - Meter Protection Page I of 18
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>Cmail
brCoogle
Meter Protection
27 messages E- tt4n,Gw*^,\NrE
Robinson, Sarah <SARAH. ROBI [e-mail]>
To: "ericwconrad @g mai l. com" <ericwcon rad@gmail. com>
Thu, Nov 12,2015 at4:47 PM
Per our telephone conversation, please see the attachments regarding meter protection. I have also attached some
examples of meter protection that has been approved in our area.
lf you have fuither questions, please let me know.
Thank You,
Sarah Robinson
Intermountain Gas Company
Operations Aide, Teton District
208-542-6616 (Phone)
208-542-6639 (Fax)
Sarah. Robinson@i ntgas.com (Email)
tW*
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Eric Gonrad <[e-mail]>
To: Kami Conrad <[e-mail]>
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Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>Thu, Nov 12,2015 at 9:58 PM
To: [e-mail], bhill@senate. idaho. gov
Brent I think I have uncovered something at lntermountain Gas that may not be illegal, but I definitely can
not find any information about the requirements of dog house roofs being OK'd by the PUC. I have been
on the ldaho Public Utilities Web site and can not find any information on this requirement, nor can I find
anywhere to lodge a complaint. Can you direct me to someone at the PUC that I can speak with?
Long story short. lntermountain Gas is holding me hostage and not hooking my Gas meter up because
they require some type of cover over the gas meter. \Men I asked for clarification, I was sent the following
PDF and pictures. No height or width requirements, etc. You will see in the letter that it is vague at best on
rules to follow.
I called lntermountain Gas out to install the meter over three weeks ago. They came out, left a voice mail
on my contractors phone (J.B. Kay and said they couldn't install until the meter was covered.) We had
hoped the overhang was out far enough and when the gutter was on we would get approval. So, I called
lntermountain Gas again to get clarification and ask them to come out and install the meter. They would
not install a Gas Meter until a shed was installed. So my contractor built a temporary shed to cover the
https://mail.google.com/maiVu/01?tri=2&ik,:dde5549800&view:pt&search=inbox&th:1... lll30l20l5
'Gmail - Meter Protection Page 4 of 18
area of the gas meter until we can get the rain gutters up. They came out today and did not install the gas
meter again, saying that I needed a "Permanent Covering".
I called the ldaho Falls office of lntermountain Gas this afternoon to find out what exactly I needed. They
sent me the attached information. I read through it and found it very unprofessional in how they could hold
anyone to a standard with the required documents. I would expect if it was law, that they would reference
the law. lf it was an internal requirement that they would have a spec sheet outlining how big the roof
should be over the gas meter, how high above the ground, etc.
I have to get gas, I have $30,000 in wood flooring that is going to fail because they will not provide gas until
I meet their demands. I finally relented and said I would have the contractor buy a prefabbed roof and get
it installed tomorrow. I asked to schedule another time to get the gas meter installed and they refused to
discuss even scheduling a time for an install until I could prove I had the roof installed. I assured them I
would have something installed, but at this point I worried if it would be everything they expected when I
could not find anything in writing that outlined all expectations.
Anyway, can you forward me to someone at the PUC that can help? Also a media person at the PUC,
because I think the public should be aware. I should have an interview tomorrow with Local News 8 lined
up by mid morning, they said they are very interested in doing investigative reporting like this.
Thanks, Eric
Forwarded message
From: Robinson, Sarah <[e-mail]>
Date: Thu, Nov 12, 2015 at4:47 PM
Subject: Meter Protection
To: "ericwcon rad @g mail. com" <ericwconrad@gmai I.com>
lQuoted text hiddenl
IMG 20130925_155735_1 1 0jpg
667K
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'Gmail - Meter Protection Page 5 of 18
photo (3).JPG
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E [urStitteot'nat
B lJj;l'"o
(12)'Pdf
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
To: "Robinson, Sarah" <SARAH. ROBI [e-mail]>
Cc: Jared Kay <[e-mail]>
Thu, Nov 12,2015 at 10:38 PM
Sarah:
Thanks for sending this information and speaking with me this afternoon. I just wanted to insure I heard
you correctly this afternoon. I completely understand the gas company wanting to protect the meter from
ice build up. I have an overhang on my new residences and will have gutters installed, but this is not
adequate per the attached document and your comments. You mention overhangs that have been
approved, how were they approved and what was the criteria to approve them?
1) lf an overhang is not adequate, the picture of the extended overhang you sent seems to meet
the requirement but no specifications are mentioned of what that overhang should be.
2) \Mren I asked for clarification on the pictures you sent you said there are no specifications on height
from ground, how large the structure should be or any specifications other than the required signature from
an engineer? \A/hat specifications is an engineer supposed to validate his design calculations against?
3) \Mlen I questioned why my dog roof that I put in place was not good enough for the gas meter, you said
it needed to be "permanent" and also stated that this is what it said in the technician notes. I can not find
anything in the information you sent me that uses the word permanent. Although it does state it needs to
meet engineers snow load.
4) I have driven around Rexburg and have noted a number of homes that have been started and
completed construction this year that do not have dog house roofs. I am confused. Would you like the
addresses to veriff my observations?
As you have required, I will call back once the prefab roof is in place, but can you clarify for my contractor
and myself how far above ground it is to be located?
Thanks, Eric Conrad
208.201.6692
lQuoted text hiddenl
Senator Brent Hit! <[e-mail]>
To: Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
Senator Brent Hill
Fri, Nov 13, 2015 at 8:54 AM
https://mail.google.com/maiVul0l?ui:2&ik:dde5549800&view:pt&search:inbox&th:1... lll30l20l5
- Fonrarded message
From: Robinson, Sarah <SARAH. ROBI [e-mail]>
Date: Thu, Nov 12, 2015 at4:47 PM
Subject Meter Protection
To: "ericwcon rad @g mail. com" <e ricwcon rad@g mai l. com>
<image001.jpg>
Per our telephone conversation, please see the attachments regarding meter protection. I have also
attached some examples of meter protection that has been approved in our area. .,
If you have further questions, please let me know.
Thank You,
Sarah Robinson
Intermountain Gas Company
Operations Aide, Teton District
208-542-6616 (Phone)
208-542-6639 (Fax)
Sara h. Robi nson@i ntgas.com (Email)
<imageOO2.png,
<lMG 20130925_155735_1 10.jpg><photo.JPG><photo (3).JPG><[Untitled].pdf><Untitled
(12).pdf>
https://mail.google.com/maiVul0lhti:2&ik:dde5549800&view--pt&search:inbox&th:1... lll30l20l5
'Gmail - Meter Protection
Eric Conrad <erioitrconrad@g mail.com>
To: "Robinson, Sarah" <[e-mail]>
Thanks, willdo.
lQuoted text hiddenl
Page 8 of 18
Fri, Nov 13, 2015 at 8:58 AM
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
To: johnathan.farly@puc. idaho.gov
Here you go, thanks for your call.
Fonryarded message
From: Robinson, Sarah <SARAH.ROBINSON@|ntgas.com>
Date: Thu, Nov 12, 2015 at 4:47 PM
Subject: Meter Protection
To: "ericwcon rad@g mail,com" <ericwconrad@gmail. com>
lQuoted text hiddenl
Fri, Nov 13,2015 at 10:35 AM
IMG 20130925_155735-1 1Ojpg
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, , 'Gmail - Meter Protection
fi luntueal.par
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Page 9 of 18
[e-mail] <postmaster@cio. idaho. gov>
To: ericwcon rad@g mai l.com
-- The following addresses had delivery problems --
Fri, Nov 13,2015 at 10:36 AM
< [e-mail]> (5.3.4 Message size exceeds fixed maximum message size)
Forwarded message
From: Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
To : joh nathan.farly@puc. idaho. gov
Cc:
Date: Fri, 13 Nov 2015 10:35:33 -0700
Subject: Fwd: Meter Protection
Here you go, thanks for your call.
Forwarded message
From: Robins
rr noname.emlugr
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
To: johnathan.farley@puc. idaho. gov
Here is the e-mail I sent last night with my concerns. No response yet.
I also asked for her supervisor to call me, no response yet.
Thanks, Eric
lQuoted text hiddenl
Fri, Nov 13,2015 at 10:36 AM
Johnathan Farley <Johnathan. Fadey@puc. idaho. gov>
To: Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
HiEric,
Fri, Nov 13, 2015 at 10:44 AM
I have your received your email and will get on this issue.
All the best,
John
https://mail.google.com/maiVu/01?ui:2&ik:dde5549800&view:pt&search:inbox&th:1... lll30l20l5
'Gmail - Meter Protection
From: Eric Conrad Imailto:[e-mail]]
Sent: Friday, November 13, 2015 10:37 AM
To: Johnathan Farley <Johnathan. Farley@puc. idaho. gov>
Subiect: Fwd: Meter Protection
lQuoted text hiddenl
Page l0 of 18
Eric Gonrad <[e-mail]> Fri, Nov 13,2015 at 10:54 AM
To: [e-mail]
Todd: Let me know if you are interested in doing any investigative reporting on this, I can be reached at
208.201.6692.
Long story short, I have spoken with Brent Hill Senate Pro Temp President, PUC commissioner and
Johnathan Farley of the Consumer Protection Division about the requirement of these roofs over gas
meters that are now being required. Doesn't look like anyone in Boise knows about this. Some
homeowners required and others not? No specifications on how to build them or where, sounds like SE
ldaho Management an lntermountain gas have gone rogue.
Thanks, Eric
Fonvarded message
From: Robinson, Sarah <[e-mail]>
Date: Thu, Nov 12, 2015 at 4:47 PM
Subject: Meter Protection
To : "ericwcon rad @g mai l. com" <ericwcon rad @g mail. com>
lQuoted text hiddenl
IMG 20130925_155735_1 10jpg
667K
photo.JPG
3922K
photo (3).JPG
2708K
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'Gmail - Meter Protection
E [!;titnat'nor
E l;Jil'"o (12)'Pdr
Page ll of 18
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
To: johnathan.farley@puc. idaho. gov
Looks like you have a size limit. l'lldo individually.
Fonrvarded message
From: Robinson, Sarah <SARAH. ROBI [e-mail]>
Date: Thu, Nov 12, 2015 at 4:47 PM
Subject: Meter Protection
To: "ericwcon rad @g mai l. com" <e ricwcon rad @g mai l. com>
lQuoted text hiddenl
E [!3titrcal.nor
Fri, Nov 13,2015 at 10:55 AM
Eric Gonrad <[e-mail]>
To: johnathan.farley@puc. idaho. gov
A few pictures with no specs...
Forwarded message
From: Robinson, Sarah <SARAH. [e-mail]>
Date: Thu, Nov 12, 2015 at 4:47 PM
Subject Meter Protection
To : "ericwcon rad @g mail. com" <ericwcon rad@g mai l. com>
[Quoted text hidden]
Fri, Nov 13,2015 at 10:57 AM
2 attachments
IMG 201 30925 J 55735 _1 r 0 jpg
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Johnathan Farley <Johnathan. Farley@puc. idaho. gov>
To: Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
Thanks, Eric. I received the pdf and the photos.
Best,
John
From: Eric Conrad Imailto:[e-mail]]
Sent: Friday, November L3,20L510:58 AM
To: Johnathan Farley <Johnathan. Farley@puc. idaho. gov>
Subject: Fwd: Meter Protection
A few pictures with no specs...
lQuoted text hiddenl
Fri, Nov 13,2015 at 11:00 AM
Eric Conrad <ericwconrad@g mail.com>Fri, Nov 13, 2015 at 6:24 PM
To: Johnathan Farley <[e-mail]>
Any progress today? I have not had any response from my e-mail or phone callyesterday with
lntermountain Gas. I assume they are on lockdown in communicating with me? That doesn't really help
my problem and even shows they are holding me hostage and stonewalling me even more. Great ethics
case.
Anyway, let me know. Thanks for your work. Eric
https://mail.google.com/maiVu/01?ui:2&ik:dde5549800&view:pt&search=inbox&th:1... lll30l20l5
, . 'Gmail - Meter Protection
lQuoted text hiddenl
Page 13 of 18
Johnathan Farley <Johnathan. Farley@puc. idaho. gov>
To: Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
Good Morning Eric,
Mon, Nov 16, 2015 at 8:03 AM
When you open a complaint with the PUC, it is our protocol to have to company cease communication
with the customer. I should hear back from them today.
Allthe best,
John
From: Eric Con rad Ima ilto:[e-mail]]
Sent: Friday, November 13, 2015 6:25 PM
To: Johnathan Farley <Johnathan. [e-mail]. gov>
Subiect: Re: Meter Protection
lQuoted text hiddenl
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]> Mon, Nov 16,2015 at 8:07 AM
To: Johnathan Farley <[e-mail]>
Cc: Jared Kay <[e-mail]>
Good to know. Thanks. Just need to figure out what needs to be done before my house freezes up.
Jared: FYI (Jared is my builder)
IQuoted text hidden]
Johnathan Farley <Johnathan. Farley@puc. idaho. gov>
To: Eric Conrad <ericwconrad@gmail. com>
Hi Eric,
Mon, Nov 16, 2015 at 3:11 PM
Can you send me a picture of your meter placement and the overhang?
Thank you,
John
https://mail.google.com/maillu/01?ui:2&ik:dde5549800&view:pt&search=inbox&th:1... lll30l20t5
'Gmail - Meter Protection
From: Eric Con rad Ima ilto:ericwconrad@gmai l. com]
Sent: Monday, November 16, 2015 8:08 AM
To: Johnathan Farley <Johnathan. Farley@puc. idaho.gov>
Cc: Jared Kay <[e-mail]>
Subject: Re: Meter Protection
lQuoted text hiddenl
Page 14 of 18
Eric Gonrad <[e-mail]>
To: Johnathan Farley <[e-mail]>
OK. Here are three examples that are in my subdivision that do not have dog house
why I am confused.
lQuoted text hiddenl
Examples of Gas Meters.docx
360K
Mon,Nov 16, 2015 al 5:14 PM
roofs, you can see
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
To: Johnathan Farley <[e-mail]>
Mon, Nov 16,2015 at 5:21 PM
Thanks for your help on this. Attached are two pictures of where my gas lines are run and awaiting meter.
Can you please send me the documentation that intermountain gas sent you and the location it can be
found in local domain for either consumer or builder?
Thanks, Eric
On Mon, Nov 16, 2015 at 3:11 PM, Johnathan Farley <[e-mail]> wrote:
lQuoted text hiddenl
m t#i{"d Residence'docx
Johnathan Farley <Johnathan,[e-mail]>
To: Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
Hi Eric,
Tue, Nov 17 , 2015 at 10:40 AM
Attached you find the procedural documentation that was provided to me by lntermountain Gas.
Additionally, I have attached a letter that outlines the formal complaint procedure. Please do not hesitate
to email or call me with any questions.
Allthe best,
John
https://mail.google.com/maiVul0l?ui:2&ik:dde5549800&view:pt&search=inbox&th:1... lll30l20l5
'Gmail - Meter Protection
From: Eric Con rad Ima ilto :ericwcon rad@gmail. com]
Sent: Monday, November 16, 2015 5:21 PM
[Quoted text hiddenl
[Quoted text hidden]
4 attachments
B t;*"oure 4o{7.docx
1g IFGC 410.1.pdf'u 1309K
1 92 Pipeline Safety Regulations.pdf
978K
Formal Complaint Procedure CONRAD E.doc
27K
Page 15 of l8
@
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>Tue, Nov 17 ,2015 at 1 1 :00 AM
To: Johnathan Farley <[e-mail]>
Awesome, thanks for your help. I will definitely do the formal complaint, but will do so after Thanksgiving
and my gas is for sure on. Where is this information in the Public Domain? lf lntermountain Gas is going
to hold consumers and contractors to rules and specifications that are not publicized, I believe that to be an
issue.
Thanks, Eric
IQuoted lext hiddenl
Johnathan Farley <Johnathan. Farley@puc. idaho. gov>
To: Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
Tue, Nov 17,2015 al1'l:27 AM
No problem. I completely understand your frustrations. Best of luck with the rest of your build !
Best,
John
From: Eric Con rad Ima ilto:[e-mail]]
Sent: Tuesday, November L7,20L5 11:00 AM
To: Johnathan Fa rley <Johnathan. Farley@puc. idaho. gov>
Subject: Re: Meter Protection
lQuoted text hiddenl
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
To: "Robinson, Sarah" <SAMH,[e-mail]>
Tue, Nov 17,2015 at 7:02 PM
https://mail.google.com/maiVu/01?ti:2&ik:dde5549800&view:pt&search:inbox&th:1... lll30l20l5
Gmail - Meter Protection Page 16 of l8
Cc: Johnathan Farley <[e-mail], Jared Kay <[e-mail]>
Sarah: As you requested, my contractor has purchased and installed the pre-fabed meter protection. Can
you confirm if this will work before we attach it to the home? Can I get a meter set appointment
scheduled?
We are anxious to get gas on.
Thanks, Eric
On Thu, Nov 12, 2015 at4:47 PM, Robinson, Sarah <[e-mail]> wrote:
IQuoted text hidden]
2277 Hendricks Meter Coverjpg
3547K
Robinson, Sarah <SARAH. ROBI [e-mail]>
To: Eric Conrad <ericwconrad@g mail.com>
HiEric,
Wed, Nov 18, 2015 at 9:14 AM
I am just waiting for my Supervisor to get out of a meeting so that I can have her take a look at this. I will let you
know ASAP.
Thank You,
Sarah Robinson
Intermountain Gas Company
Operations Aide, Teton District
208-542-6616 (Phone)
208-542-6639 (Fax)
Sarah. Robi nson@i ntgas.com (Email)
https://mail.google.com/maillul0lhi:2&ik:dde5549800&view:pt&search:inbox&th:1... lIl30l20l5
' Gmail - Meter Protection Page 17 of l8
From : Eric Conrad [ma ilto :e ricwcon rad@g mai L com]
Sent: Tuesday, November L7,2015 7:02 PM
To: Robinson, Sarah
Cc: Johnathan Farley; Jared Kay
Subject: Re: Meter Protection
*"" This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. ""*
lQuoted text hiddenl
Robinson, Sarah <SARAH. ROBI [e-mail]>
To: Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
Wed, Nov 18, 2015 at 10:39 AM
I just spoke to my Supervisor and it is hard to tell from the picture if the meter protection covers the regulator. We are
sending a Service Tech out to look at it and will let you know ASAP.
Thanks,
Sarah Robinson
Intermountain Gas Company
Operations Aide, Teton District
208-542-6616 (Phone)
208-542-6639 (Fax)
Sa ra h. Robi nson@i ntgas.com (Email)
hups://mail.google.com/muVul0l?ui:2&ik:dde5549800&view:pt&search:inbox&th:l... lll30l20l5
. .- Gmail - Meter Protection Page l8 of 18
ATTGA' COMPAIST--'JE!--,-
From r Eric Conrad [ma ilto : ericwco n rad@g ma i l. com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 17,2015 7:02PM
To: Robinson, Sarah
Cc: Johnathan Farley; Jared Kay
Subject: Re: Meter Protection
*** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. ***
Sarah: As you requested, my contractor has purchased and installed the pre-fabed meter protection. Can
you confirm if this will work before we attach it to the home? Can I get a meter set appointment
scheduled?
lQuoted text hiddenl
[Quoted text hiddenl
Eric Conrad <[e-mail]>
To: "Robinson, Sarah" <SARAH. ROBI NSON @intgas.com>
Thanks.
lQuoted text hiddenl
Wed, Nov 18,2015 at 10:56 AM
https://mail.google.com/maiUul0l?ui:2&ik:dde5549800&view:pt&search:inbox&th:1... lll30l20l5
A
INTERMOUNTAIN
CAS COMPANY
A Substdlary d ltDU Rofrltttw9 Gtouq,lnc.
1527 HOLLIPARK DR, r P,O. BOX 51220 . IDAHO FALLS, lD 83405-1220
[phone] . FAX[phone]
wwwintgas.com
April 19, 2012
XYZ Builder or Dealer or Architect
Builder or Dealer Business Name
Address
Town, ldaho ZIP
Dear XYZ,
Thank you for your support and selection in using Natural Gas for your building's energy needs.
We enJoy our Joint partnership in providing safe, efficient and the best energy value, Natural Gas,
to our mutual customers.
It tuo ahrays been a priori$ for lntermountain Gas Company to comply with federal, etate und
hcaljurisdictional codes, as vtrell as the manufacturer'$ recornrnondations mnrerning the safety
of the Natural Gas metering system. lntermountain Gas Company will ensure the ongoing safe
operation to you and our mutual customers throug,h enforsnent of meter set locatbns in such a
manner and location to compty with appropiate co&s.
For example, meter locations can not be located under roof valleys and eaves where run oJf due
to rain and snow may affect the meter set. Meter locations on a.ny "gable" end of the home's roof
line thst prwUee probction from any rain and snow run off or other possible hazards will be
allowed.
lf a safe rneter location can not be identified on a home or building, an engineered structure that
dbttr$ adequab ventilatbn and is designed to meet the potential snow load can be used to
protect the meter and must be in place prior to service being activated.
ll an engineercd structure is used, an engineeds sigrrxfute wiff be needed approving the
s*ruchne's dosirn and Sility to protect the rneter from snovl and be.
Please contact the Customer Sales Representative in your area for further details or if you have
any questions.
Again, thank you for your supportl
Sincerely,
TeriTeNgaio
Teton District Manager
cc: file
Intermountain Gas Comnanv
Aonroval of Ensinesrod Desisn for Meter Proteclion,
I hereby ccfliry that the shuctune being insalld over ard arround theureter set at
(Ad&ess),(Toum),Idaho:
for (Custonrer) will ventilate my gas
from the regplatof and will withstatd the anticipated snow and ice lods thatrnay oc-sur
at this address,
Sigrnd:
Customel or Builder
Engineen Date
2277 Hendricks Circle, Gas Placement
on North Side of home, away from
wind and drifts. Gutters to be
installed in two weeks
2277 Hendricks Circle, Gas Placement
on North Side of home, away from
wind and drifts that come from SE.
Gutters to be installed in two weeks