Introduction: | Lately, we've been inspecting a lot of older homes (more than 15 years), that have been "updated", or "remodeled". This often includes freshening up the bathrooms and kitchen. But when the remodeling is performed, does the new construction need to include updates to the CURRENT building code? Humm..... |
Answer: | FALSE - IT IS NECESSARY to meet the current building code any time a component or system is replaced, renovated or modified. Lately, we've inspected a lot of older homes that have had the kitchens "refreshed" - this usually includes replacing the existing cream colored electrical receptacles with more modern looking white ones. (The receptacle is the part of the outlet into which power cords are inserted, not the cover plate) One issue is, that 15 or 20 years ago the building code required ground fault protection (the safety feature that prevents electrocution) on outlets closet to the sink. HOWEVER, the current requirement is to protect ALL kitchen receptacles. So, while replacing the receptacles may appear as simple as reconnecting wires - there are more complex issues at hand, and this is one of those tasks that should be undertaken by a knowledgeable, licensed professional electrician. The color of the receptacles may be cosmetic, but the operation is a life safety issue. |
