COMMUNITY FORUM

There is almost no doubt that, if you even feel the need to ask the question, "can I do it myself," then you should NOT do it. Upgrading a service wiring is something that is a fairly simple job, but it involves so much risk that you should get someone who has done it a thousand times and will do it right again this time. You should only attempt it yourself if you have done so much wiring that it does not seem like a daunting task to you. If you feel the need to even ask, then don't do it.

Good point Lawrence!

Nick

How about just a new breaker box for 60-70 amps in your detached garage? I feel certain I can do that. Book type instructions online? PVC from basement under driveway. Existing 200 AMP service.

> Upgrading a service wiring is something that is a fairly simple job, but... <

Good comment. My county has no building codes or inspectors. I recently enclosed my carport and turned it into a workshop and I decided to hire an electrician run the new wire from the main box to the breaker box in the shop. I did the shop wiring myself, but didn't feel comfortable running the new wire.

--Bill

www.joetedesco

[This message has been edited by Joe Tedesco (edited April 09, 2003).]

The only thing to add is that if you are counting on an inspector to tell you if you have done it wrong, you are probably in over your head. Inspections in my area are only cursory and check very little, they definitiely do not check quality of work.

skikt22,

Good points. It is a common misconception that passing inspection means that the job has been done right. This argument is used all too often to justify work being done by inexperienced persons. Even if Inspectors may put extra effort into inspections under these circumstances I think it is unreasonable to assume that they would be able to properly assess every single aspect of every installation.

Could we have an Inspector opinion on this?

Bill