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The Electrical System is another important part of a residential home inspections for Brooklyn, NY home buyers. One of the first areas that is inspected is the incoming service. Above ground cables that come from the utility pole connecting to the service entrance conductors of the house is called a Service Drop.According to the National Electrical Code (NEC) these above ground cables must have a minimum clearance of three feet from windows that open, doors, porches, balconies, ladders, stairs, fire escapes, or similar locations.
During a Brooklyn, NY home inspection, the inspector will check that the service entrance cable is the proper height above the ground and that it has the required minimum clearances. For example, on sidewalks the minimum height of the cables is 10 feet, driveways 12 feet, fences is 10 feet, and 18 feet above the street. There are other height and clearances that will be inspected as well. In addition to this the condition of the outside cables that runs to the meter will be checked for deterioration. If the cables are frayed the exposed wires can come in contact with each other causing a blowout or electrical fire.
The service entrance cables should also be firmly attached to the structure starting at the roof and running down the side of the structure to the meter box. The cables are then fastened to the building with cable clamps placed approximately four feet apart. The condition of the meter is also inspected. A home inspection will make sure it is operational and firmly secured to the exterior wall. It is common in this area for the stealing of electricity so it will be checked for taps around the meter. The meter should be locked and tagged by the utility company.
There are many more features of an exterior electrical system that your home inspector will examine and report on. After examining the electrical system, an upgrade may be recommended. In today's modern homes 200 amp service are installed to meet the demands of computers and other electronic devices. Although an upgrade is not a safety issue, it may be recommended if it's determined to be less than 100 amps. This will allow all of your plug-in devices to operate and perform to its maximum.
As a home inspector I make sure the electrical system is operating safely.
For more information on the value of a home inspection go to: www.abrooklynhomeinspector.com
