New work must comply witht the current code IMHO, If you are replacing a panel located in a clothes closet or other location I would expect the installed (replacement) panel to comply with the current code, out of the closet. If the basement only had a 5 foot depth I guess I'd ask for it to be relocated to a more practical location if there was one. There are always going to be hardship situations that would require special considerations. I heard of a case where the contractor dug a hole 1 foot deep in the dirt basement floor in front of the panel to get the height requirement.
[This message has been edited by George Little (edited 06-21-2005).]
