LEGALLY can you ignore NEC code violations when installing electrical next to a violation

[Rjryan]

My wife ask me to install some additional circuits for friends.
The problem arises from NEC code violations on their pool installation.
Just off the top of my head, pool pumps not on GFCI and no maintenance disconnects for pool equipment.
The installation would involve panel work and accessing wiring through pool junction box.
I brought up no GFCI on the pool pumps to the friends before and they consulted their pool inspector, who said it was not necessary.
Challenged them on the issue, they went with the "pool inspector".
What is my liability in this situation?

 

[don_resqcapt19]

Run...not a job to even think about

 

[nizak]

My wife ask me to install some additional circuits for friends.
The problem arises from NEC code violations on their pool installation.
Just off the top of my head, pool pumps not on GFCI and no maintenance disconnects for pool equipment.
The installation would involve panel work and accessing wiring through pool junction box.
I brought up no GFCI on the pool pumps to the friends before and they consulted their pool inspector, who said it was not necessary.
Challenged them on the issue, they went with the "pool inspector".
What is my liability in this situation?

I would avoid the job. Last guy/gal on the job is usually the first to be contacted when there’s an issue.

 

[suemarkp]

When was the pool built? Is the pump hard wired? I don't believe hard wired pumps required GFCI protection until about the 2011 code. Are the circuit breakers for the pump and other pool equipment within sight of that equipment? Not sure how many pool maintenance/repair places know about the requirement to bring GFCI up to current code when a pool motor is replaced.

If it turns out things are OK when they were built, the other posters still have a valid point that you were the last to touch it so the electrocuted kid is now your fault.

 

[Rjryan]

Thank you for replying, I wanted to please my wife and help friends, but what you are saying, I was afraid of what might happen.
Thanks for the advice.

 

[ptonsparky]

I was going to say, “Yes, you can ignore things”, until I read Pool.

 

[charlie b]

I suggest a written note, in very gentle and friendly terms, stating why you have to decline the project. Cite (no need to actually quote) the code articles that the existing installation violates, state that you sincerely believe it already represents a safety hazard, state that if you did work on the system without fixing the problem you would feel responsible for any future injuries, and you don't want to have to live with that fear. Mention that you are not looking for additional profit on this job, but rather that you recommend hiring another electrician.