50% Renovations

[Grouch]

I always hear, and I wish it was written somewhere, that if at least 50% of the square footage of an apartment is renovated, the entire apartment must be brought up to code electrically.

How does this apply?
1. Let's say one wall of a bedroom is being redone... the wiring, the paint, the millwork, etc. Does this then trigger the square footage of the entire bedroom to apply?
2. What if one light fixture is changed in the living room? Does this trigger the square footage of the entire living room to apply as well?

 

[roger]

I've heard that in some areas too but never saw any actual proof that it was a real requirement.

 

[infinity]

We have some local ordinances which state that if the floor area is increased by more than 50% (say for a home addition) then the entire structure must be compliant with the current building code.

 

[augie47]

Our Building Inspectors use 50% of the value of the building. Repairs and modifications above that 50% vlue require a full upgrade to current standards,
I think it originated from FEMA where there is a 50% rule based on the structures market value.