ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Circuit Breaker Overload

Yes I'm a novice but this is not a DIY question. I need facts before I can approach my landlord with a complaint. I just found that my entire house (except major appliances) is operating on two 20 amp breakers. One carries 15 outlets and 6 fixtures the other carries 13 outlets and 8 fixtures. This is every room including the bathroom and kitchen even the refrigerator.
Is this a code violation ????
Also there are about 8 breakers which do nothing.

[This message has been edited by imdaman (edited 10-12-2004).]

It depends on when the building was constructed.

The NEC is not retroactive.

That said, it is possible that there are local amendments, building codes specifically for rental properties that may require somethings to be brought up to present code.

In my area GFCI outlets need to be installed in rental properties meeting the new codes. However we would not have to update the lack of circuits.

[This message has been edited by iwire (edited 10-12-2004).]

I've worked in old buildings where there was only one 15-amp circuit for each apartment. However, if you can prove the wiring was installed after the new codes took effect, you may have a valid complaint.

Not being a wise guy, but... To correct the situation may require moving out for the walls to be opened, and re-wired at which point the whole place should be re-modeled. If this is your only complaint, maybe its time to move?

I hate having to do occupied apt. up-grades. It starts with the complaint to the landlord, who calls us. Then I show up and say, "Well, you need to clear everything 3' from every wall, and under any of the ceiling areas that need work." The tenant ends up with all thier stuff in narrow piles like a maze around the house, and miserable for the duration of the job.

Maybe you'll be lucky and it was done originaly in conduit.

At 180VA per yoke, and the unknown fixture wattage, you're well over the rating for the circuits at the most recent codes. I don't know if that many were ever allowed. But this is more of a 'renters board' question.

An Electrician could be hired to make an assesment of the system, and recommendations, but it's between you and your landloard at the end of it.

Mark, 180 va per yoke would not apply in a residential dwelling even if it's a rental.

In residential wiring there is no limit to the number of receptacles on a circuit.


Roger