Unauthorized work

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rrrusty

Senior Member
Location
Colorado
What do you do in a case where you the electrician did a rough on a house ; got your inspection and when you went back to do the trim find that some outlets were moved? I was informed that the owner/builder did this. It is indicated by the marks I put on the unfinished floor to show me where outlets are in case the drywallers hide a box or two as well as a differant color box is used, I used black; he used blue.... Any suggestions?
 

bennie

Esteemed Member
Re: Unauthorized work

Take photographs of the changes. Keep a written record on file to CYA.
 

pwhite

Senior Member
Re: Unauthorized work

this raises several issues.
#1 is owner/builder a licensed electrician?
#2 does these changes violate the nec/codes in your area?

if the owner/builder is not licensed, then the issue of liability comes into effect. my thoughts are to see if his work violates any codes, inspect everything he did, possibly replace everything and charge him for it, and have him sign a document stating that he changed your work. you need to fully document everything done. if there is any problems (electrical problems that might cause a fire), you are covered.
 

bennie

Esteemed Member
Re: Unauthorized work

Diplomacy is the answer. Let it be known you are aware of the changes. Should there be a safety problem, discuss your perception. If there is not likely to be a problem, forget it.

You may win the battle, but lose the war.
 

michael nye

Member
Location
California
Re: Unauthorized work

Bennie is on the right track, good answer, you need to let the customer know what they did was unethical. Not being in the industry as a tradesman they are probobly not aware of the line they crossed. I would just get info on where they tied in and check the work, a additional charge will be in order for your involvement and trim materials.
 

torint

Member
Re: Unauthorized work

I also like Bennies answer but I would also inform the AHJ about the situation because if anything cathes on fire or breakers become overloaded you will be liable. Also note on the exisisting contract what has taken place and ask the homeowner to sign off on his work. Inform the AHJ before you finish the work
 

dmpaul

Member
Location
Minnesota
Re: Unauthorized work

I would think that you should find out who and why they did it, knowing you are liable. Under your judgement how far you want to take this. The authority having jurisdiction would probably hang he/she up by long rope. A Masters Test question states: In the event wiring is concealed, " the person responsible for having enclosed the wiring" shall be responsible for all costs of uncovering and replacing the cover material.
 

hurk27

Senior Member
Re: Unauthorized work

I agree with Beenie as diplomacy is the best answer. If you come off as a hard @$$ then you wont get many ref's and even though you butt is on the line there can be safe alterntives that can satify both parties. sometimes the homeowners do this just to be able to brag that they had a hand in the building of their home. of course the biggest reasone is to save money or they dont have enough to cover extra's but it is always better to keep your customers happy as it will sooner or later bring you more work. and this is what keeps us working.
 

spyder

Member
Location
Massachusetts
Re: Unauthorized work

If they help you with your job, then why not help them with theirs...start nailing up trim boards....

Just kidding, I would tell them in the future please call if any changes are required otherwise you can't help them.
 
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