You're right, the description you provide sounds much more like individual dwelling units than typical hotel suites. Here's a breakdown of why and how that impacts your question about SABCs and other electrical requirements

Why it's likely Dwelling Units, Not Hotel Suites:
Long-Term Residence

Military housing implies longer-term residency, unlike the transient nature of hotels.

Complete Kitchen Facilities

While it's only a 2-burner cooktop, it's still a full cooking appliance. Hotel suites often have, at most, a microwave and mini-fridge.

Washer and Dryer

This is a significant indicator of a dwelling unit. Hotel suites rarely include laundry facilities within the suite itself.

Suite Configuration

4 separate bedrooms per suite makes this more like a multi-bedroom apartment arrangement.

Therefore, the likely classification is dwelling units, not hotel suites.Impact on SABCs and GFCIs (Based on the US National Electrical Code - NEC)

Because you've indicated that the housing is US military, I will assume you will be using the US National Electric Code for guidance:

Small Appliance Branch Circuits (SABCs - 210.11(C)(1) in the NEC)



Yes, you absolutely need two SABCs for the kitchen countertop in each dwelling unit. The NEC mandates a minimum of two 20-ampere small appliance branch circuits to serve all wall and floor receptacle outlets located in the kitchen, pantry, dining room, and similar areas. These circuits are specifically designed to handle the higher power demands of kitchen appliances. Dining Area Considerations

Whether the dining area requires SABCs depends on its location and usage. If the dining area is integral to the kitchen area or serves primarily as an extension of the food preparation area, the SABC requirements extend to it.

Since the design documents do not show any SABCs for the dining areas, you need to determine if these areas are considered an extension of the kitchen, or are stand-alone, separate spaces. If the dining areas are connected to the kitchen, the design documents are most likely deficient in that they do not provide SABCs for that space. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs - 210.8 in the NEC)

Your separate comment on GFCIs is critical.

GFCIs are absolutely required in numerous locations in dwelling units, including

Kitchens (serving countertop receptacles). Bathrooms (all receptacles). Laundry areas. Garages/Accessory Buildings. Outdoors (readily accessible receptacles). Crawl spaces (at or below grade level). Unfinished basements. Within 6 feet of sinks (not just in bathrooms, but anywhere).

Specific Code References (NEC 2023 - Consult the latest edition for your jurisdiction)



Article 100 - Definitions

Defines "Dwelling Unit" and other relevant terms.

Article 210 - Branch Circuits

Contains requirements for SABCs (210.11(C)(1)) and GFCI protection (210.8).

Article 220 - Branch Circuit, Feeder, and Service Calculations

This is critical for calculating the total electrical load of each dwelling unit to ensure the service capacity is adequate.

Article 406 - Receptacles, Cord Connectors, and Attachment Plugs

Covers receptacle requirements, including tamper-resistant receptacles.

Article 550 - Mobile Homes, Manufactured Homes, and Mobile Home Parks

I only mentioned this because you mentioned multi-bedroom units, but this may not apply.

Recommendations for Your Review


Clarify the Intended Use

If there is any question about whether these are considered dwelling units or temporary accommodations, get written clarification from the base's housing authority and/or the project's architect/engineer of record. This determination is crucial.2.

Thorough Code Review

Perform a detailed review of the 95% design submittal against the current edition of the NEC and any applicable local amendments. Pay particular attention to Articles 210, 220, and 406.3.

Document Deficiencies Clearly

Your comments should clearly state the specific code section that is not being met and why. For example: "The design does not comply with NEC 210.11(C)(1), which requires two 20-ampere small appliance branch circuits to serve all wall and floor receptacle outlets located in the kitchen countertop."4.

Coordination

Communicate your findings to the electrical engineer of record. Be prepared to discuss the code requirements and why they are important for safety and functionality.

Important Considerations for Military Housing



Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection (AT/FP) Requirements

Military installations often have specific AT/FP requirements that may impact electrical design, particularly related to security and emergency power. Ensure these are addressed.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Military construction projects often prioritize sustainable design and energy efficiency. Consider the impact of electrical design choices on energy consumption.

Resilience: Military housing should be designed to withstand potential disruptions, such as power outages. Consider backup power options and surge protection.By focusing on the dwelling unit classification and conducting a thorough code review, you can ensure the electrical design meets all applicable requirements for safety and functionality. Flag for review