New Code Edition Equipment Update

[wbdvt]

When a new code edition is issued with new requirements, when does existing equipment need to be updated to meet those new requirements? My understanding has always been that the code that was in force at time of construction/installation is the prevailing code. However, if the equipment is to be replaced, then the current code would be the one that needs to be adhered to. Correct?

For example: As system installed per the 1981 code, does not have a single throw to disconnect the service entrance cables but rather 5 disconnect switches in a single enclosure to accomplish this. Not a code violation, correct?

TIA

 

[ron]

Most codes are not retroactive when adopted, but some are and specifically indicated as so. For example
410.69 Identification of Control Conductor Insulation, shall become effective January 1, 2022.

I don't see such a requirement in 230.71(B)

 

[bwat]

If the OP's questions is answered, I'll ask a related question. When a state/locality adopts a new code cycle, what stage must projects be in order for them to be "grandfathered in" and still use previous code? What if design is complete, but no shovels have hit earth and it's in bid stage? What if it's a project being built over several years, and the first stage is starting, and there's a code change that would impact the way a subsequent stage is done two years from now?

I can see this answer varying from AHJ to AHJ, but what's typical? I would think there's gotta be a common point that once you pass this, any new code cycle changes/adoptions are irrelevant.

I feel like I should know this. But I don't.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

The code cycle that the installation is guided by is when the permit was taken out. If you had a permit taken out Dec 2019 and code change Jan 1, 2020 then your install must follow 2018 code or whatever code was in use at that time.

 

[ron]

When a state/locality adopts a new code cycle, what stage must projects be in order for them to be "grandfathered in" and still use previous code? What if design is complete, but no shovels have hit earth and it's in bid stage? What if it's a project being built over several years, and the first stage is starting, and there's a code change that would impact the way a subsequent stage is done two years from now?

I agree with Dennis. It is when the Permit was taken out

 

[jim dungar]

I agree with Dennis. It is when the Permit was taken out

I agree, except in some cases of phased projects. I worked on one hospital where the build out for floors 7-10 occurred under a different code than the building shell and floors 1-6. Due to equipment lead times, the second phase was occupied before the first phase was completed.

 

[paulengr]

When a new code edition is issued with new requirements, when does existing equipment need to be updated to meet those new requirements? My understanding has always been that the code that was in force at time of construction/installation is the prevailing code. However, if the equipment is to be replaced, then the current code would be the one that needs to be adhered to. Correct?

For example: As system installed per the 1981 code, does not have a single throw to disconnect the service entrance cables but rather 5 disconnect switches in a single enclosure to accomplish this. Not a code violation, correct?

TIA

Most of the time replacement in kind is allowed. There are a few exceptions such as a mandatory upgrade to AFCIs. You don’t have to upgrade to that garbage though if the existing is working.

 

[kwired]

When a new code edition is issued with new requirements, when does existing equipment need to be updated to meet those new requirements? My understanding has always been that the code that was in force at time of construction/installation is the prevailing code. However, if the equipment is to be replaced, then the current code would be the one that needs to be adhered to. Correct?

For example: As system installed per the 1981 code, does not have a single throw to disconnect the service entrance cables but rather 5 disconnect switches in a single enclosure to accomplish this. Not a code violation, correct?

TIA

Are you replacing that single enclosure with 5 service disconnecting means?

Since this was a 2020 NEC change and not everyone is on 2020 NEC yet you still can replace it with similar setup if still on an older NEC, but most places that are on 2020 NEC I would think will require either a single disconnect or separate enclosures if that needs replacement. It however is allowed to remain as is beyond 2020, and probably even allowed to install some occasional replacement parts if needed.

I don't think 2020 NEC really addresses whether you can add a sixth disconnect to this existing setup though and that might be totally up to the AHJ.