I have been asked to look at a multi occupancy (multifamily) 8 unit building built and inspected in 1985 to see if it meets at minimum the 1984 NEC (that was in effect). Now I know lots have changed since then but the requirement for not more than 6 service disconnects goes way back.
The building has one mast with a set of parallel conductors that connects to one utility drop. The mast terminates in a tap box. Off the tap box is a typical modular meter center with 9 meter/mains. Each meter main is rated 100A and has a 80A breaker installed to feed each dwelling unit.
Is this a service with 9 disconnects?
Or are the bus bars service 'sets' and each of the mains a 'service' to a 'building' with one service disconnect? All of course at one service disconnect location.
Was this allowable back then and is it allowed now in the 2014 NEC?
I am interested in your thoughts and opinions.
The closest old code book I have handy is the '81
The '81 had an exception (3) to 230-2 number of services for multi-occupancy buildings, very similar to the 2014 NEC 230.40 ex 1
Thanks in advance
The building has one mast with a set of parallel conductors that connects to one utility drop. The mast terminates in a tap box. Off the tap box is a typical modular meter center with 9 meter/mains. Each meter main is rated 100A and has a 80A breaker installed to feed each dwelling unit.
Is this a service with 9 disconnects?
Or are the bus bars service 'sets' and each of the mains a 'service' to a 'building' with one service disconnect? All of course at one service disconnect location.
Was this allowable back then and is it allowed now in the 2014 NEC?
I am interested in your thoughts and opinions.
The closest old code book I have handy is the '81
The '81 had an exception (3) to 230-2 number of services for multi-occupancy buildings, very similar to the 2014 NEC 230.40 ex 1
Thanks in advance