You've accurately identified a few potential issues with the service configuration, and your understanding aligns with generally accepted electrical practices and the NEC (National Electrical Code). Here's a breakdown of your concerns and why they might be valid

Here's the situation you described:
4-wire SER cable

From the meter to the main panel.

Distance

25-30 feet from meter to panel.

Location

Crawl space and closet.

Ground/Neutral Bond

Bonded at the service panel.

Here's why your concerns are valid, and some points to consider


SER vs. SEU and the Neutral-Ground Connection



SER (Service Entrance Cable, Round)

This cable can be used for both service entrance and feeder applications. However, the key is how the neutral is handled. The NEC differentiates between "service equipment" and "separately derived systems."

SEU (Service Entrance Cable, Unarmored)

This is typically a 3-wire cable and generally not appropriate for feeding directly from a meter to a panel without a disconnecting means at the meter.

Your Concern

You're right to be concerned about the continuous run of a 4-wire SER cable from the meter to the main panel without a disconnecting means at the meter. Here's why:

Service Disconnect Requirement

NEC requires a readily accessible disconnecting means (a main breaker or fused disconnect) for the entire service. This disconnect must be located at a convenient and accessible location either outside or just inside where the service conductors enter the building.

Neutral-Ground Bonding

The neutral and ground must be bonded only at the service disconnect location. Since you have the bond in the main panel, the main panel is acting as the service disconnect.

Potential Problem

This raises questions about having a service disconnect not at the meter.2.

The Electrician's Counter-Argument

The electrician is possibly thinking that as long as the 4-wire SER cable is correctly used for a feeder, it is permitted. And, they may see the panel as acting as the service disconnect.3.

Specific NEC Codes to Reference



NEC 230.70(A)(1)

Location of disconnecting means. It must be readily accessible.

NEC 250.24(A)(5)

Grounding of Service-Supplied Alternating-Current Systems. The neutral-ground bond must occur at the service equipment.

In summary

You are correct to question the configuration. The lack of a proper service disconnect before the cable enters the building is a significant safety concern. The electrician may be missing the point of having a service disconnect located closer to the meter. Even if the electrician is correct in their application of the NEC code, the overall safety concern is valid.

Recommendations


Further Investigation



Contact Local Authority

Even without formal code enforcement, there might be a building department or electrical inspector you can consult for an informal opinion.

Detailed Photos

Take extensive photos of the entire installation, including cable markings, the meter base, the panel, and the grounding/bonding setup.2.

Consult Another Electrician

Get a second opinion from a different licensed electrician.3.

Documentation

Clearly document your findings in your inspection report, noting the potential code violations and safety concerns.4.

Recommendation to Client

Advise your client to have a licensed electrician evaluate the service and make any necessary corrections to ensure compliance with the NEC and local regulations.

Important Disclaimer: I am an AI chatbot and cannot provide professional electrical advice. My response is for informational purposes only and should not be substituted for the guidance of a qualified and licensed electrician. You are responsible for your own safety and your client's safety. Flag for review