service panel in stairway

[Stevenfyeager]

I have to replace a residential 100 service. It is presently in a basement stairway wall. Is there any NEC code against this? I am thinking on moving it to the basement, so there is a flat surface to stand on when standing in front of the new panel. It will require more work, but, is there any code about this ? Thank you.

 

[ActionDave]

The panel is ok you just can't have any breakers in it, 240.24(F)

 

[dionysius]

The panel is ok you just can't have any breakers in it, 240.24(F)

I think the OP is moving it away from the steps to the basement wall. There is no problem code wise. In fact he has a code problem right now.

 

[Ponchik]

The panel is ok you just can't have any breakers in it, 240.24(F)

Then it needs to move. Unless AHJ allows it.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Panels were allowed over stairs before the 2011 (I think) but now they cannot be installed there. I would ask the authority having jurisdiction if you can just replace it where it is presently

 

[qcroanoke]

Panels were allowed over stairs before the 2011 (I think) but now they cannot be installed there. I would ask the authority having jurisdiction if you can just replace it where it is presently

+1
It may be AHJ's opinion that it is grandfathered and is ok where it is.

 

[mwm1752]

stairs have steps & landings -- over a landing with compliant access dimensions is ok --

 

[growler]

I have to replace a residential 100 service. It is presently in a basement stairway wall. Is there any NEC code against this?

It may be AHJ's opinion that it is grandfathered and is ok where it is.

If it's just a panel swap it may be grandfathered but if it a whole service I would doubt it.


My personal opinion is that a stairway is a poor place for a panel and could cause an accident. I worked on one in a stairway (top of ) not long ago and it was tough standing on two different steps in front of the panel. In those older homes the steps are often not to code either. I wished the guys that had replaced the panel had moved it to the basement and it would have made things easier for future expansion as the basement was to be finished some time in the future.

 

[iwire]

My personal opinion is that a stairway is a poor place for a panel and could cause an accident.

I agree and this is the best time to move it.

 

[Ponchik]

I just noticed the OP said service panel. You may want to check with your POCO as well.