HomeFairfax General ForumArrest/Ticket SearchWiki newPictures/VideosChatArticlesLinksAbout
Fairfax County General :  Fairfax Underground fairfax underground logo
Welcome to Fairfax Underground, a project site designed to improve communication among residents of Fairfax County, VA. Feel free to post anything Northern Virginia residents would find interesting.
Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 11:04AM

A couple of weeks ago, I had an electrician install an outlet in my garage. Yesterday, a different electrician came for another reason and he pointed out that the first electrician double tapped a circuit to install the wire, which is a code violation. I have contacted the first electrician asking them to remedy the situation, but have not heard back (don't expect to, I suppose).

Aside from slamming them on Angie's List or other such venue, is there a place to file a formal complaint? I've looked around the Fairfax County website, but it isn't exactly user friendly. Thanks.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 11:12AM

Before you run the first guy under the bus by reporting him to Fairfax County, think about this. Did you have a electrical permit to do the install? Something like this requires an inspection by a county inspector to be legal. If you do not have the proper permits to do the work, and bring in the county you are setting yourself up for a fine if not more. Think before you act, and get together with first guy before you do anything.

Good luck- You made need it -

Get a smoke detector for the garage.....

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 11:24AM

You have to have a permit to install an outlet? What about ceiling fans?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 11:25AM

And exactly why are you blaming ME? I hired a licensed electrician to do work. Shouldn't they inform ME when a permit is needed?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 11:38AM

Zapped Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> And exactly why are you blaming ME? I hired a
> licensed electrician to do work. Shouldn't they
> inform ME when a permit is needed?

Ignorance is no excuse when it comes to the law. If you put a deck on your house without a permit and inspection by the county, you could be held liable if the deck collapses. Years and years after you sell the home, because you didn't do it the right way.

So if your garage catches fire because of wiring not up to code, and no permit or inspection, your homeowner's insurance won't cover the burned up house and garage or contents, and your auto insurance won't cover your roasted cars.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 11:51AM

Zapped Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> You have to have a permit to install an outlet?
> What about ceiling fans?


Most new homes come pre-wired for putting in fans and such - There is a small metal plate that hides the protected wiring leads until needed. These are installed at the time of building the home, and are covered under the electrical permit, and yes they are inspected. As for the fan you can go to Lowes or Home Depot and buy the fan of your choice, and install it yourself. Please read and follow the instructions to the letter. If you home is not pre-wired you will need a pro with permits and inspections.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 11:59AM

I'm still not buying the ignorance thing. I think it is up to the professional to inform customers. I'm not an electrician. Putting in an outlet seemed like a simple thing.

Also, I had THREE certified electricians come give me estimates for this outlet and ceiling fan installation (older home, so not prewired). NOT ONE OF THEM mentioned permits. I'm just really pissed off right now. :(

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 12:05PM

Don't get mad - get the situation fixed properly.

As for the law - Look up ignorance as a defense in court. Ask any cop.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 12:29PM

I'm not denying that ignorance is not an excuse. I'm just pissed that not one single LICENSED electrician who visited my house said I needed a permit. That's just wrong. I think it is up to the LICENSED PROFESSIONAL to inform a homeowner of the requirements.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: jb4hj ()
Date: December 23, 2014 12:33PM

Double tapped a circut breaker? I bet your cheap ass did not want to pay to install a new breaker, no more compatible breakers available or replace you box because it was maxed out. You probably convinced the guy to do it because the cheap skate inside of you did not want to squeeze out a few hundred buck. Have fun reporting him because ultimately you are the one responsible:)

People like you are the worst, want something for cheap then bitch about it the next day.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 12:40PM

Do yourself a big favor - Do some research - You have a computer and internet service. Then make your next move. Research electrical codes, and permit requirements. The local fire department can be a big help, as they investigate to causes of fires - electrical and otherwise.

Good Luck - Have a great Christmas!

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: contractor ()
Date: December 23, 2014 12:42PM

You can use this website to check the status of the contractors license and file a complaint if need be.

http://www.dpor.virginia.gov/

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 12:44PM

jb4hj you are a tool.

And Pay Up Sucker, I have been researching permit requirements on the Fairfax County site. I'm pissed that I'll have to pay to get this fixed because the electrician won't return my calls. If the second electrician had not come, I never would have known they did this. It's not like I'm taking the cover off the panel on a regular basis. I don't even know what I'm looking at in there. Grrrrrrr.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 12:48PM

contractor Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> You can use this website to check the status of
> the contractors license and file a complaint if
> need be.
>
> http://www.dpor.virginia.gov/


Be careful not to reveal your name or exact reason BECAUSE-

If they find out what has been going on the CAN and WILL condemn your home until you bring it up to code. They have been known to pick a home apart finding many other violations. We are talking about thousands of dollars in repairs, and fines.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: cheapola ()
Date: December 23, 2014 12:54PM

Zapped Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> jb4hj you are a tool.
>


Boo hoo, you know they are right so you resort to name calling cheap ass. lol enjoy the added cost for being a tight wad.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 12:56PM

I'm still working on trying to get the original electrician to fix his mistake. That is far preferable to filing a complaint, I just wanted some leverage and couldn't find the place to do so. Thank you Contractor for the link.

I just bought this house. The electrician that came yesterday found several other issues that he fixed (they were things previous owners did). I can only imagine what an inspector would uncover. The second electrician only saw what he was working on.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: just bought it? ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:06PM

Did you not get a home inspection?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:08PM

I would go with the second contractor. Level with him and be honest, and he will do the same. Buying a older home is a good thing, but the electric has to be correct. Consider this story:

Family of 5 burned to death in a 3am electrical fire -

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:09PM

Yes I did. The home inspecto took off every electrical plate in the house to verify correct wiring. Oh wait, no inspecto does that. Fucking idiot.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: bVTXP ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:12PM

The stupid thing about the entire double tap is all the electrician needed to do is add an additional outlet right on the side of the breaker panel and route the circuit through the additional outlet so there was no double tap at the circuit breaker or put is a piggyback breaker or 1/2 width breaker if they make them for this specific panel.

I do not buy anything about require a permit to install a ceiling fan.

Most additions to existing wiring do not require permitting or inspections.

I can also say I have had PLENTY of wiring and other work "inspected" that had massive problem and was unsafe. So although you think the inspector is looking out for your best interest, usually they are just looking out for the county cash flow.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:13PM

Yes, I got a home inspection. Inspectors do not remove outlet covers and switchplates. He did take the panel cover off and verified that all breakers were same and none were double tapped (that is, until I hired an electrician to put an outlet in the garage).

The second contractor would have fixed this yesterday, but he didn't have any 15 amp Sylvania circuits (old and hard to find) in his truck, only 20 amp.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:16PM

Hey tool, why are you posting stuff as me? You are not productively involved in this discussion. Not exactly sure what your point is or why you chose this thread to troll. Bored much?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:20PM

Sounds like you need to call him and tell him to find that 15 amp breaker, and install it. Get that double tap out and be done with it.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:23PM

People are posting as me. Are all of you losers bored.

I paid a guy cash to get the discount. He should fix the problem that he created. The government doesn't need to be involved. Only the liberal wackjobs of Fairfax would want some ignorant county worker in their home telling them what is goo and what isn't.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: bk ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:24PM

did you find this guy on Angies list , if you did I am SURE they will fix it , contract the vendor on the phone again ( who is it anyway ? maybe I can help) then an email if no response, then finally and email telling them you are going to take it up with angies list, I would give them some time as this is around Christmas

then file a complaint on Angies list , I almost guarantee that this will get it resolved .

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: loiknn ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:26PM

I thought it would fall on the electrician to get the permit. If a contractor fails on code on a remodeling job, or on OSHA failures, than it goes to him, not the homeowner.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: loiknn ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:29PM

But if you have no paperwork from him, than your left with burden of proof. Always be careful of cash jobs and contractor discounts. Always get a receipt or contract

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:32PM

I didn't find him on Angie's List. I was just thinking I could give feedback on there even though I didn't hire him through there. Maybe I can give bad feedback on Google or yelp. I hired him at the Herndon 7-11.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:32PM

I wrote a check. In the memo I wrote "ceiling fans/outlet"

Yes, I found them on Angie's list. They had almost 100% A rating (one C).

Dickhead registered my "Zapped" name as his own. Really not quite understanding his childish purpose here. Whatever.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:34PM

This site is just not helpful. Any suggestions on a site where people are not mentally ill?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:36PM

loiknn Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I thought it would fall on the electrician to get
> the permit. If a contractor fails on code on a
> remodeling job, or on OSHA failures, than it goes
> to him, not the homeowner.


If you find a contractor that does a cash and carry type business, and no paper trail this should be a huge red flag to find another contractor. There are scams with jack leg handymen passing themselves off as a contractor with a Class A license.

The last thing one of these gypsy con-artists wants is the county involved.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:40PM

Pay Up Sucker Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> loiknn Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > I thought it would fall on the electrician to
> get
> > the permit. If a contractor fails on code on a
> > remodeling job, or on OSHA failures, than it
> goes
> > to him, not the homeowner.
>
>
> If you find a contractor that does a cash and
> carry type business, and no paper trail this
> should be a huge red flag to find another
> contractor. There are scams with jack leg handymen
> passing themselves off as a contractor with a
> Class A license.
>
> The last thing one of these gypsy con-artists
> wants is the county involved.


I trusts him and he left me high and dry.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped 2 ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:41PM

Dickhead keeps registering my names. Very annoying, but no big deal.

According to that site Contractor linked, he has a Class C license.

The only paper trail I have is an email thread with the exact work and pricing, arrival date and time, etc. as well as the cancelled check that says "4 ceiling fans/one outlet"

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Ralph Pootawn ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:41PM

The Real Zapped 2 Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Dickhead keeps registering my names. Very
> annoying, but no big deal.
>
> According to that site Contractor linked, he has a
> Class C license.
>
> The only paper trail I have is an email thread
> with the exact work and pricing, arrival date and
> time, etc. as well as the cancelled check that
> says "4 ceiling fans/one outlet"

Class C is basically a learner's permit.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:42PM

The Real Zapped 2 Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Dickhead keeps registering my names. Very
> annoying, but no big deal.
>
> According to that site Contractor linked, he has a
> Class C license.
>
> The only paper trail I have is an email thread
> with the exact work and pricing, arrival date and
> time, etc. as well as the cancelled check that
> says "4 ceiling fans/one outlet"

Dude you are mentally ill. Stop pretending to be me. The contractors at the Herndon 7-11 don't send emails. I bet you are North Korean.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:43PM

I'm trying to get real help. Why so much hate for a brother?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped 2 ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:45PM

WTF is your problem?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Yes ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:47PM

The Real Zapped Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> This site is just not helpful. Any suggestions on
> a site where people are not mentally ill?

city-data

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:47PM

The Real Zapped 2 Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> WTF is your problem?


Sir, my problem is that an electrician did bad work and I am seeking advice. What is your problem?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped 2 ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:53PM

You need a life.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped 2 ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:53PM

And why haven't you registered The Real Zapped 2 yet? You are slacking.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:56PM

Why did I think I could get a straight answer from this site? I give up.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: jungle boogie ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:57PM

I have no electrical license, and I'm sure I'd get an A rating on Angie's list. I know how to wire, but that wouldn't protect you if a manufactures defect started a fire, the insurance for you or the manufacture would look for any loophole to not pay. And with no permit, they'd get one. I can't state this 100%, but if you got this guy from Angie's list, and he represented himself as an electrician, than its on him. By not responding to your calls, he knows he failed. If you got time to call or go to the county building, and let them know. This guy doesn't need to do any wiring without supervision. The typical homeowner will see he has a license, not know the difference between a,b, or class c. This guy should lose his.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Seeing crazy people ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:57PM

The Real Zapped 2 Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> And why haven't you registered The Real Zapped 2
> yet? You are slacking.


are you having conversations between yourself? This is weird. But entertaining.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Prudential ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:58PM

let your insurance handle it when your home burns down.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: dIRTY dAN ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:59PM

Hi Ralph Pawntoon boat

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 23, 2014 01:59PM

The easiest and best way to find a good contractor be it for electric, plumbing, brick/stone mason, roofing, or whatever is to go to a supply house that sells to trades people.

So you should find a electrical supply company, contact the manager, and ask for the names of good contractors. They know the real score. Drunks and drug addicts don't pay their bills, and don't stick around long.

Good contractors are more expensive than cash discount guys. Ask for referrals - They will be happy to supply them.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped 2 ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:00PM

He's definitely a licenced electrician. And before I found out what they did, I would have given an A rating too, just hadn't gotten around to it yet. I'm pretty sure most homeowners don't know what's right or wrong when it comes to electricity. They depend on the expertise of the licensed professional. Never would have known they did this if it were not for another electrical issue that fell under my home warranty program. The electrician they sent is the one who identified the problem.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: jungle boogie ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:02PM

The people that can help the most are at work. Check for answers this evening. If you ever let on that you need immediate help on here with anything, you'll just be calling for an army of trolls

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped 2 ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:03PM

Seeing crazy people Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> The Real Zapped 2 Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > And why haven't you registered The Real Zapped
> 2
> > yet? You are slacking.
>
>
> are you having conversations between yourself?
> This is weird. But entertaining.


It is only entertaining for you. You have taken over all my names so I can't use them and you are posting dumbass remarks. You must be a bored cop sitting behind a desk.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped 2 ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:06PM

jungle boogie Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> The people that can help the most are at work.
> Check for answers this evening. If you ever let on
> that you need immediate help on here with
> anything, you'll just be calling for an army of
> trolls


I don't need immediate help. Was just wondering where one complains about code violations. That is when I discovered that this work should have had a permit, which opened a whole new can of worms.

The bored child doesn't bother me much, but I think it is confusing to people who really want to offer ideas. For example, I hired this guy based on Angie's List and he was one of 3 electricians I got estimates from, not 7-11 in Herndon. Sheeeesh. I had no reason to believe that these guys did not do proper work. :/

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Hot fateful ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:09PM

The Real Zapped 2 Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Seeing crazy people Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > The Real Zapped 2 Wrote:
> >
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> > -----
> > > And why haven't you registered The Real
> Zapped
> > 2
> > > yet? You are slacking.
> >
> >
> > are you having conversations between yourself?
> > This is weird. But entertaining.
>
>
> It is only entertaining for you. You have taken
> over all my names so I can't use them and you are
> posting dumbass remarks. You must be a bored cop
> sitting behind a desk.

So you are an anti cop libtard. Don't call 911 when your home burns down. they don't like cop haters.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:10PM

The real zapped and real zapped 2 are little kids bored while home on winter vacation.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Retired Electrician ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:11PM

Your best bet would be to have your electrical panel upgraded and have Dominion Power upgrade your service to two hundred amps. The old sylvania panel is probably short breaker slots and is only 100 amp service. You WILL require a electrical permit for what electricians refer to as a "heavy up".
Less than two grand but peace of mind.
Happy Holidays

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:12PM

Retired Electrician Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Your best bet would be to have your electrical
> panel upgraded and have Dominion Power upgrade
> your service to two hundred amps. The old sylvania
> panel is probably short breaker slots and is only
> 100 amp service. You WILL require a electrical
> permit for what electricians refer to as a "heavy
> up".
> Less than two grand but peace of mind.
> Happy Holidays

Thank you very much. This is a thoughtful reply and I will get some quotes for the work. Have a great Christmas.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: jungle boogie ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:15PM

The county building at fair lakesis where I've gotten permits for minor stuff, I'd call the building dept or go down there. Your house won't be condemned, just shut off the said breaker before you go there, or if they send someone, shut it off before they come. No power, no problem

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped 2 ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:16PM

Retired Electrician Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Your best bet would be to have your electrical
> panel upgraded and have Dominion Power upgrade
> your service to two hundred amps. The old sylvania
> panel is probably short breaker slots and is only
> 100 amp service. You WILL require a electrical
> permit for what electricians refer to as a "heavy
> up".
> Less than two grand but peace of mind.
> Happy Holidays


There are still 5 open slots in the panel, but I agree I should probably get it upgraded. House was built in 1978, so wiring is aluminum (copper covered I believe).

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: jungle boogie ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:21PM

Some aluminum wiring requires certain grade fixtures due to different expansion rates of different metals. Let your electrician know

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Henro ()
Date: December 23, 2014 02:57PM

Wirenut the two wires together with a third wire (pig tail) under the breaker screw.

My class A contractor class was about contracts ALWAYS have one signed.

That way the taxpayers dont have to have court clogged with shitty contractors and cheap dumb home owners.

Get it
Got it
Good

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Remodeling Contractor ()
Date: December 23, 2014 05:31PM

Zapped Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I'm still not buying the ignorance thing. I think
> it is up to the professional to inform customers.
> I'm not an electrician. Putting in an outlet
> seemed like a simple thing.
>
> Also, I had THREE certified electricians come give
> me estimates for this outlet and ceiling fan
> installation (older home, so not prewired). NOT
> ONE OF THEM mentioned permits. I'm just really
> pissed off right now. :(


Sir,

None of the electricians had suggested to pull out the permit because it would have cost them time and money. 1 day to pull the permit,1 more day to install the outlet and 1 more day to be present on location for the final inspection. 3 full days, not to mention permit fees, I guess it is $110. My guess, your job took 2 hours from start to finish. You could have paid $250 on top what you had paid had they suggested to pull a permit. Most homeowners would cancel the whole thing. :)

Call the Fairfax County Residential Inspection's office, ask to speak to an electrical inspector. Explain what had happened and what the second electrician had told you, s/he should confirm if the work had been don the right way or not.

Good luck

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: VtCmn ()
Date: December 23, 2014 05:42PM

double tapped a circuit to install the wire, which is a code violation


bullshit

most home circuits are double tapped



define it for me, show me the diagram

absolute bullshit

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: jh73W ()
Date: December 23, 2014 05:44PM

you should get a proffessional:

1) no illegal spics sent out by someone licensed
(good luck, that's all you'll find)

2) no fx co inspectors. they are overpaid idiots and non-proffesional

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: "burning down the house" ()
Date: December 23, 2014 05:44PM

Remodeling Contractor Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Zapped Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > I'm still not buying the ignorance thing. I
> think
> > it is up to the professional to inform
> customers.
> > I'm not an electrician. Putting in an outlet
> > seemed like a simple thing.
> >
> > Also, I had THREE certified electricians come
> give
> > me estimates for this outlet and ceiling fan
> > installation (older home, so not prewired). NOT
> > ONE OF THEM mentioned permits. I'm just really
> > pissed off right now. :(
>
>
> Sir,
>
> None of the electricians had suggested to pull
> out the permit because it would have cost them
> time and money. 1 day to pull the permit,1 more
> day to install the outlet and 1 more day to be
> present on location for the final inspection. 3
> full days, not to mention permit fees, I guess it
> is $110. My guess, your job took 2 hours from
> start to finish. You could have paid $250 on top
> what you had paid had they suggested to pull a
> permit. Most homeowners would cancel the whole
> thing. :)
>
> Call the Fairfax County Residential Inspection's
> office, ask to speak to an electrical inspector.
> Explain what had happened and what the second
> electrician had told you, s/he should confirm if
> the work had been don the right way or not.
>
> Good luck

Remodeling contractor = handyman with a larger truck.
This is not the forum for discussing quick fixes for structural or electrical issues.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 07:42PM

This has been real interesting. I can't believe someone pretended to be me.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: doubletap ()
Date: December 23, 2014 08:10PM

Most codes disallow putting two wires in one breaker, but within the box you can tie in two wires to the one going to the breaker. Most of the work putting in that new line was running a line to your garage... I trust he didn't charge you for a breaker that he did not install... why not buy one and install the thing yourself? It's a $5 part and will take 10 minutes to do, tops.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 08:22PM

doubletap Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Most codes disallow putting two wires in one
> breaker, but within the box you can tie in two
> wires to the one going to the breaker. Most of
> the work putting in that new line was running a
> line to your garage... I trust he didn't charge
> you for a breaker that he did not install... why
> not buy one and install the thing yourself? It's
> a $5 part and will take 10 minutes to do, tops.


I wish I could. But I am not very handy. I have to hire people to do everything. My partner always teases me about it.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Zap, Zapped, Really Zapped ()
Date: December 23, 2014 08:49PM

Dont you Know that this is the Only! Site That people at Staunton Western State Hospital are allowed to post on for therapy. Fairfax Underground..You are looking here for advice?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Bill.N. ()
Date: December 23, 2014 09:37PM

its been a while since I checked, but I seem to recall running new electrical lines did require a permit. One of my "red flags" when dealing with contractors is whether the initial paperwork addresses who is responsible for pulling necessary permits. For small jobs it isn't unusual for the contractor to not want to do it themselves, since permits usually means a county inspection. They should at least be telling you that you should get the permit.

The thing I cannot figure out here is why the first contractor would double tap the circuit. If you are going to the trouble to pull cable and open up the box anyways, why wouldn't you simply install an extra breaker. I'm sure they have a number of them in their truck.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Sine Waves ()
Date: December 23, 2014 10:42PM

A licensed,bonded and insured electrician doesn't require a permit to add a circuit as long as the work meets/exceeds NEC and local electrical codes. The invoice should reflect work performed and have his name,company,address and licensee # included.
A professional wouldn't double tap and/or pigtail the connection either. Also having the recpt. installed in the garage, it should be a GFCI. As stated by R E poster above maybe the panel and electrical feed(main) should be upgraded and properly grounded. Older homes should have Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (breakers) installed if possible. The days of Harry Handyman just tying into so existing loads are over with everything powered by electricty now. Balanced loads.harmonics and maintaining proper bonding/grounding is important due to most appliances,tv's and computers utilizing electronic circuits.
Good luck.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: ijjhbg ()
Date: December 23, 2014 11:06PM

doubletap Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Most codes disallow putting two wires in one
> breaker, but within the box you can tie in two
> wires to the one going to the breaker. Most of
> the work putting in that new line was running a
> line to your garage... I trust he didn't charge
> you for a breaker that he did not install... why
> not buy one and install the thing yourself? It's
> a $5 part and will take 10 minutes to do, tops.


If you never messed with electricity, don't ever take the cover off the circuit breakers. EVER. You can get cooked. Bad advice to give to a rookie.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Greybeard ()
Date: December 23, 2014 11:55PM

So I've been a homeowner for 30 years, but had never heard of a "double tapped" breaker. Looked it up, found http://www.structuretech1.com/2010/01/how-to-correct-double-tapped-circuit-breakers/ -- which suggests that there might be a trivial way to correct it (with a breaker designed for double-tapping).

Anyway, aside from the usual whingeing morons trying to cause trouble, this has been an interesting thread!

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Funny thanx for the laugh ()
Date: December 24, 2014 12:27AM


Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Funny thanx for the laugh ()
Date: December 24, 2014 12:28AM

Took me less time to search than to read the thread

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: WilliamRobert ()
Date: December 24, 2014 08:14AM

Code enforcement? What's that? Where I live in wv you simply build your shit and call it good. You shouldn't have to call the government to approve work you have done on your own property to your own home. What a waste a tax dollars.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: exffx ()
Date: December 24, 2014 08:52AM

do you call the government when your house catches on fire or deck falls apart and people get hurt?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: jungleboogie ()
Date: December 24, 2014 09:10AM

WilliamRobert Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Code enforcement? What's that? Where I live in wv
> you simply build your shit and call it good. You
> shouldn't have to call the government to approve
> work you have done on your own property to your
> own home. What a waste a tax dollars.

That's fine if you do your own home, you'll have nobody to blame but yourself. But what if you have someone do it for you and they do it wrong? There's no residential enforcement where I live either. But I've seen a few so-called reputable contractors down here take a lot of building shortcuts that have caused serious problems later. Most people will try to get away with what they can. Many people don't take pride in their work or put a few extra dollars in savings in front of structural integrity.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Pay Up Sucker ()
Date: December 24, 2014 09:34AM

WilliamRobert Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Code enforcement? What's that? Where I live in wv
> you simply build your shit and call it good. You
> shouldn't have to call the government to approve
> work you have done on your own property to your
> own home. What a waste a tax dollars.

Northern Virginia vs West Virginia

I don't live in shit - I have a home I had built for me. Not a lawn barn with a orange extension cord run to it, or perhaps your home is a retired metal shipping container.

This started with a homeowner with a situation of a bad install or some basic wiring. Safety is the most important issue here. I don't care how much this man pays, only that his home is safe and doesn't catch fire.

He needs to bring in a real pro to fix the situation - with the proper paperwork to back the work.

So go back into your hole with your do it yourself tattoo kit, and finish decorating yourself.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: D. the correct answer ()
Date: December 24, 2014 12:17PM

Sine Waves Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> A licensed,bonded and insured electrician doesn't
> require a permit to add a circuit as long as the
> work meets/exceeds NEC and local electrical codes.
> The invoice should reflect work performed and have
> his name,company,address and licensee # included.
> A professional wouldn't double tap and/or pigtail
> the connection either. Also having the recpt.
> installed in the garage, it should be a GFCI. As
> stated by R E poster above maybe the panel and
> electrical feed(main) should be upgraded and
> properly grounded. Older homes should have
> Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (breakers)
> installed if possible. The days of Harry Handyman
> just tying into so existing loads are over with
> everything powered by electricty now. Balanced
> loads.harmonics and maintaining proper
> bonding/grounding is important due to most
> appliances,tv's and computers utilizing electronic
> circuits.
> Good luck.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: joezapper ()
Date: December 24, 2014 12:33PM

File a complaint with Fairfax County Consumer Protection Division (complaints link on fairfaxcounty.gov)

You could call the building inspector and they can go after the electrician, but this could expose other code violations--not recommended.

Call state licensing board.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Sparky Sparky ()
Date: December 24, 2014 01:43PM

You have two reporting options for this unusual situation:

Link for all consumer complaints in Fairfax County:
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer/IQext/CSW_acs.asp

Link to submit a complaint to the County's Department of Code Compliance:
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fido/complaints/comp_detail.aspx?catid=7&probcode=2

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Dick Ed ()
Date: December 24, 2014 02:54PM

Sparky Sparky Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> You have two reporting options for this unusual
> situation:
>
> Link for all consumer complaints in Fairfax
> County:
> http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer/IQext/CSW_ac
> s.asp
>
> Link to submit a complaint to the County's
> Department of Code Compliance:
> https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fido/complaints/comp
> _detail.aspx?catid=7&probcode=2

If the OP files a complaint with Fairfax County it may expose other issues that he is trying to avoid

Do you not have the ability to read and understand you Fuckwad

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: xkjP7 ()
Date: December 24, 2014 04:09PM

doubletap Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Most codes disallow ....

AHA! most codes in what year on which panel type ?

it's true though that if an idiot attatches multiple wires to anything or works around old copper: it may come loose unless they've had a little apprenticeship from an electrician. a good place for it to wiggle loose is a junction box neatly packed in way where it wont matter

this isn't what the builders did on my home - they left grounds right next to opposite polarity contacts near ready to throw molten copper

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: X-mas oysters ()
Date: December 24, 2014 05:37PM

xkjP7 Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> doubletap Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > Most codes disallow ....
>
> AHA! most codes in what year on which panel type
> ?
>
> it's true though that if an idiot attatches
> multiple wires to anything or works around old
> copper: it may come loose unless they've had a
> little apprenticeship from an electrician. a good
> place for it to wiggle loose is a junction box
> neatly packed in way where it wont matter
>
> this isn't what the builders did on my home - they
> left grounds right next to opposite polarity
> contacts near ready to throw molten copper

Hitting the egg nog early?

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: dumfuq ()
Date: December 24, 2014 05:38PM

OP is a dumfuq. He's gotta be a lib. Stupid fucking asshole.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: Sparky Sparky ()
Date: December 25, 2014 01:07AM

Dick Ed wrote:

If the OP files a complaint with Fairfax County it may expose other issues that he is trying to avoid

Do you not have the ability to read and understand you Fuckwad
============================

Dick Ed is the Fuckwad! You don't mess around with electrical problems. Bring out the professional inspector who truly knows the building/electrical code to review the situation and make a recommendation about what needs to be done. If they find other violations it is better to catch them now rather that have your home burn down.

Options: ReplyQuote
Re: Reporting Electrical Code Violation
Posted by: The Real Zapped 2 ()
Date: December 26, 2014 10:58AM

Not trying to hide or avoid anything. If there are issues with this house, they were caused by others as I have only lived in this house for a week.

Anyway, the original electrician came today and brought a Sylvania breaker and fixed the problem to my satisfaction. Done.

Aside from the asshole who registered the name Zapped and The Real Zapped as his own and continued to have conversations with himself, I appreciate the helpful replies.

Options: ReplyQuote


Your Name: 
Your Email (Optional): 
Subject: 
Attach a file
  • No file can be larger than 75 MB
  • All files together cannot be larger than 300 MB
  • 30 more file(s) can be attached to this message
Spam prevention:
Please, enter the code that you see below in the input field. This is for blocking bots that try to post this form automatically.
 ********        **  **     **  ********    *******  
    **           **  **     **  **     **  **     ** 
    **           **  **     **  **     **  **        
    **           **  **     **  ********   ********  
    **     **    **  **     **  **     **  **     ** 
    **     **    **  **     **  **     **  **     ** 
    **      ******    *******   ********    *******  
This forum powered by Phorum.