Code Question

[chemist70]

I bought a house a year ago and during the inspection it was noted that the electrical wiring for the lights in the kitchen (which are found in the attic) were not in boxes, laying on the insulation. Well the previous homeowner decided he'd try to box up the wires. He placed the wires in plastic boxes, leaving some laying unsecured to anything, with the ground wires on the outside of the boxes. Now here's my question:

If a change is made to the elctrical, (adding the boxes) is it required by law to bring to code? Also is there any "grandfathering" rule?


Note that no permit was ever pulled to do this work. So his work was never inspected after the fact. Construction of the orignal structure took place after 1965.

 

[bphgravity]

Re: Code Question

In most cases, any alterations, additions, or changes to any electrical devices, components, or equipment must be performed under the existing adopted code for your jurisdiction.

Now, in some cases, an upgrade or change can be made to one particular circuit without touching or effecting any other components or circuits. Only the components that are being actually effected need to be brought to code, unless the existing circuits or components are unsafe and present a danger.

 

[physis]

Re: Code Question

The question about when things need to be brought to current code is one I could use help with.

Where is it found in code?

 

[bphgravity]

Re: Code Question

Physis: There really isnt a specific section that deals with this issue. Simply put, any new work must be done at the current code no matter how old the structure or occupancy is.

For example, if you build a house under the 99' code and a day after you get the final inspection, the 02' is adopted, all new work from this point would have to be made to code.

Usually, the AHJ will inform you of all that needs to be upgraded when new work is performed on an older building. Like I stated before, usually those systems that are not touched or effected will not have to be altered.

Here are some proposals for the 05' that have not made it to this point.

Proposal 4-56 (230.11)(new) o Replacement of service equipment at dwelling units. o Install a listed AFCI, branch/feeder type or outlet branch circuit type on all existing 125 volt single phase, 15 and 20 ampere outlets for lighting and appliances.
The AFCI, outlet branch circuit type, shall be installed at the outlet closest to, and within 3.0 m (10) of the overcurrent device as measured along the B.C. conductors. o The panel action was Reject

Proposal 3-106, New Article 526 o The Panel rejected a proposal for a new Article (Tentatively 526) that would cover wiring in historic buildings. This article would have allowed new installation of old wiring methods that are consistent with the age of the building, but may no longer be allowed by Code.

 

[physis]

Re: Code Question

Somebody must decide. Is it AHJ's. If there's a dispute where does it go?

Thanks Bryan.

Sam

[ May 29, 2003, 07:18 PM: Message edited by: physis ]

 

[physis]

Re: Code Question

Let me put it like this. Here, if you take down any sheet rock you'll have to replace any knob and tube even though there wouldn't otherwise be any electrical work. Who's rule is this?

 

[bphgravity]

Re: Code Question

Sam: This sounds like a local code that has probably been pushed by insurance companies. K & T is really not all that bad of wiring method if it is done properly. The problem is that no one knows how to use it anymore so it is considered dangerous.

Here in Florida, you cant get insurance on a house if it has a fused service and loadcenter. Again, there really is nothing wrong with fused panels, other than they are generally really small and overloaded. However, insurance companies and the like are aware of homeowner tampering, overfusing and the technology is old so circuit breakers are required.

This goes back to the constant thought process all of us have to keep in mind. The code is the barest minimum requirement. Many communities and jurisdictions require higher compliance.

 

[physis]

Re: Code Question

Bryan,

I feel the same as you about knob and tube, except for dealing with devices in boxes with a 1/2 inch of wire and the icky tar. I was just citing this as an example though.

Your first post on this topic just got me to thinking, who does make the rules on redoing and how do you find out what they are, I mean definitively.

Maybe I'll call San Francisco and see what they say. The trouble with them is you'll get a different answer from every single person you talk to. :roll: Or the same person on different days. Maybe I'll call three times.

 

[bill addiss]

Re: Code Question

physis,

The rules you are looking for (if they exist) may be in your Building Code.

Bill

 

[russ]

Re: Code Question

If Article 80 is adopted 80.9 would apply.
Even if it's not adopted it's probably the way things usually work.

Russ

 

[physis]

Re: Code Question

Thanks you guys.