You're right to be concerned. Homemade electrical panels, especially in a marine environment, are a significant safety hazard. Here's a breakdown of the code references and why this is a problem

Key Code References (Primarily NEC - National Electrical Code):
NEC 110.3(B) Examination, Identification, Installation, and Use of Equipment

Equipment that is listed, labeled, or identified for a specific purpose shall be installed and used in accordance with any instructions included in the listing, labeling, or identification. This is a fundamental rule. It means if something is listed (like a Square D panel), it must be used as intended by the manufacturer and listing agency (typically UL). Modifying a listed product in this way voids its listing.

NEC 110.2 Approval

The conductors and equipment required or permitted by this Code shall be acceptable only if approved. "Approved" is generally defined as acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). The AHJ will almost certainly not approve of a homemade panel that violates listing requirements.

NEC 110.3(A) Integrity of Electrical Equipment and Systems

Electrical equipment and systems shall be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner. While somewhat subjective, haphazardly installed equipment, such as a home-made panel in a PVC enclosure, is not considered neat and workmanlike.

NEC 314.22(A) Damp, Wet, or Corrosive Locations

Boxes, conduit bodies, and fittings installed in damp, wet, or corrosive locations as described in 300.6 shall be identified for the location. While PVC boxes are often suitable for wet locations, enclosing a modified electrical panel within them does not automatically make the entire assembly suitable. The entire assembly needs to be listed for the environment.

Article 555 - Marinas and Boatyards

This entire article is relevant. It has specific requirements for equipment used in marinas, including:

555.3 Suitability of Equipment

Equipment used in marinas and boatyards shall be listed and labeled for the intended use and location. The critical word here is "listed and labeled".

NEC 408.36 Wet Locations

Enclosures for panelboards installed in wet locations shall be weather proof. Although the PVC enclosures might be weather proof by themselves, the modifications done to the original panel invalidates that assumption and therefore would not be in compliance with UL's original wet location ratings.

Why This is a Problem


Voided UL Listing

Modifying a listed electrical panel in this way invalidates the UL listing. The panel was tested and approved as a complete assembly. Changing the enclosure, internal components, or wiring voids that certification.2.

Safety Hazards



Fire Risk

Improper wiring, inadequate grounding, and lack of overcurrent protection coordination can all lead to fires.

Shock Hazard

The marina environment is inherently wet, increasing the risk of electric shock from faulty equipment. Especially dangerous around boats, metal components, and water.

Corrosion

Marine environments are highly corrosive. Standard electrical components may not be designed to withstand the salt spray and humidity, leading to premature failure and safety hazards.3.

Lack of Engineering

Listed electrical panels are designed by engineers to meet specific safety and performance standards. Homemade panels lack this engineering oversight.4.

Code Violation = Liability

If someone is injured or property is damaged due to these non-compliant panels, the condo association (and potentially individuals involved in their installation) could face significant liability.5.

Insurance Issues

Your condo association's insurance company may not cover losses related to unapproved or improperly installed electrical equipment.

What You Should Do


Document Everything

Take detailed photos of the panels, wiring, enclosures, and any other relevant information.2.

Report to the AHJ

Contact the local electrical inspector or building department (the Authority Having Jurisdiction). Explain the situation and provide your documentation. They will likely require the panels to be replaced.3.

Engage a Qualified Electrical Contractor

Hire a licensed electrical contractor experienced in marina electrical systems. They can assess the situation, provide a detailed plan for remediation, and ensure the work is done to code. They should be familiar with Article 555 of the NEC.4.

Replace, Don't Repair

Attempting to "fix" the homemade panels is generally not advisable. The best course of action is to replace them with UL-listed panels suitable for wet/damp locations.5.

GFPE Protection

As you mentioned, GFPE (Ground Fault Protection of Equipment) is essential in marinas. Make sure the new panels include proper GFPE protection in accordance with NEC 555.3(B).

Important Considerations for Marina Electrical Systems



Isolation Transformers

Consider using isolation transformers to further isolate the shore power from the boat's electrical system, reducing the risk of galvanic corrosion and stray current hazards.

Proper Grounding/Bonding

A properly installed and maintained grounding/bonding system is critical for safety.*

Regular Inspections: Marina electrical systems should be inspected regularly by a qualified electrician.In summary, those "homemade" panels are a serious problem and should be addressed immediately. Prioritize safety, code compliance, and professional expertise. Flag for review