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View Full Version : 15 AMP, 14 gauge plugs in basement


Salbycat
May 2, 2007, 07:39 AM
Hi,

I am in the process of selling my house, and a recent home inspection noted that the basement is finished with 15 AMP, 14 gauge plugs and should be 20AMP 12 gauge plugs. I got the impression that my basement wasn't up to code. Does the basement need to be rewired or is what I have standard?

tkrussell
May 2, 2007, 04:52 PM
NEC only requires one outlet, and does not specify whether 15 or 20 amp, so a 15 is fine if it is unfinished. If it is a finished family room, then an older code once wanted only #12 and a 20 amp circuit.You may have had a local code that did not change.

Sounds like the inspector was just noting existing conditions. They would not been vague with a violation, it would be listed on a notice letter to have problems corrected.

Who hired the inspector? If he was working for a bank or mortgage there may be a demand letter on it's way. Or may just be a survey. Best to ask them for the purpose of the inspection.