Check out some similar questions!

ggaede85 · May 3, 2008, 01:04 PM

Is it against the building code in Pennsylvania to have both circuit breaker boxes located in one apartment in a 2 unit house?

stanfortyman · May 3, 2008, 02:28 PM

Absolutely.

Fr_Chuck · May 3, 2008, 02:44 PM

But how old is the wiring in the apartment was it built before the code went into effect. Is there separate electric meters or is electric furnished.

ggaede85 · May 4, 2008, 04:32 AM

There are 2 meters and electric is not furnished. Also the house was converted into apartments at least 12 years ago

Clough · May 4, 2008, 05:26 AM

Around where I live, we can purchase yearly in a book form, what are currently the electrical codes for buildings and residences around here from hardware stores and also home building type stores. Maybe around where you live, you might be able to purchase something similar? Just a thought for you...

stanfortyman · May 4, 2008, 05:43 AM

Originally Posted by Fr_Chuck

But how old is the wiring in the apartment was it built before the code went into effect. Is there seperate electric meters or is electric furnished.

This would NOT matter.
If this is an apartment they MUST have access to their breakers. Period.

Also, this is not an electric code issue, well, maybe other than the fact that breakers must be "readily available". If they are in someone else's locked apartment then they are NOT readily available.

This is a building or housing code issue and is serious! :mad:

tkrussell · May 4, 2008, 06:01 AM

Check with your local municipal Building official, Code Enforcement, and/or Planning & Zoning.

You will discover that according to the 2008 National Electric Code, Section 240.24 (B), that "all occupants shall have ready access" to all circuit breakers supplying that occupancy. This has been code for many years.

If electric utilties is furnished and paid for by the landlord, then access can be limited to the landlord.

You may also discover:
1. If the two family was converted with the proper permits.
2. Was there proper notice and approval of the town.
3. Is the neighborhood zoned for multi-family dwellings.
4. Does the structure have adequate egress exits.

It may also be worth checking to be sure each meter only serves the circuits for each apartment, and that there is no miswire where one tenant is paying for someone else's electric power.