Doing plan review, we receive a substantial number of "homeowner" permit applications, ranging from installing a receptacle, to pools, to service changes, and everything in between.
The homeowner is required/requested to submit a "sketch" with some basic pertinent info on what they propose to do. Some get it "right"
I'm just a homeowner, so:
A year or so ago, here in northern NJ, I visited town hall and saw the electrical inspector at his office. Showed him a sketch (not on a brown paper bag) of what I wanted to do and asked a few code related questions. He said that I didn't need to go as so far as to use AC (BX) cable, but it would be okay. Rough inspection only thing I missed was the green wire pigtails one should have to connect the metal boxes to the green ground screw on outlets. Went and bought some, put them in, and later that day I got passed.
Final inspection I passed, though he didn't like the Hubbell industrial grade outlets I used ("hard to insert plugs in"). I'm sure he inspected my work closer than that of an EC that he routinely sees the work of and knows what to expect.
This was a kitchen remodel, permits cost
$75 each for electrical and plumbing, and our taxes went up about $200 per year.
