The NEC can be 'minimum' and 'maximum'; dependent on what you may be looking for or at.
That said, I have never heard of anyone 'failing' for exceeding the requirements of the current NEC. Basically, if the '02 says "A", and '05 says "A+", and you do "A+" how could you fail??? Unless it is a local thing in your areas.
Here in NJ, the '02 is in effect; the '05 may be adopted "any day now", but none of us are holding our breath.
Does your area have an 'appeal' process for disagreements with the AHJ's???
John
