Are they as strict on manual generators?
The newer style panel covers are AWESOME they provide interlock protection between the utility and your standby, however a lot of people use those isolating type transfer switches around here(Washington State)I don't like them as much because you are set in stone as to which circuits will work during outage. The factory panel cover with interlock is great because you can use what ever circuits you want by simply flipping breakers.
Of course the gas generators have a major drawback(GAS) that limits them to 2-3 days of fuel and major storms out east seem to last WEEKS, but if natural gas pressure drops all those people who thought they were ready for the next storm might be pissed when their generator conks out.
