Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: Cartoon1, Location: Florida
Asked on: Sunday, February 23, 2025 at 1:19 pm EST
Answered on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 8:58 am EST
Question: Hi,This is for NEC2020, State Florida. Building with a main meter center with a main circuit breaker, this has 20 meters with their own circuit breaker to each unit. This feeds 20 condos panels. My understanding per NEC 2020 230.67 is that a surge protection device is required at the main meter center main circuit breaker (1000Amps 208/120V in this case). My question: is it required for the panels at each condo also?For NEC2023 once it gets adapted here, is it also required at the panels?Thank you,
Okay, let's break down the surge protection requirements for your condo building project in Florida, considering both NEC 2020 and the upcoming NEC 2023 adoption.
NEC 2020 Analysis (Current Florida Code)
You are correct that NEC 2020 Section 230.67 mandates surge protection at the service equipment for dwelling units. 230.67 Surge Protection
"All services supplying dwelling units shall be provided with a surge-protective device (SPD).
Location
The surge-protective device shall be installed at or within the service equipment."
In your specific case
The main meter center with its 1000A main circuit breaker is definitely service equipment as it is the main point where the electricity comes in from the utility. Therefore, an SPD is REQUIRED there.
Do the individual condo panels also need SPDs? This is the key question. Based on NEC2020 and interpretations, the individual condo panels do not require surge protection, as the service already has surge protection. In addition, there is an exemption of dwelling units that do not use surge protection systemsNEC 2023 Analysis (Future Florida Code - When Adopted)
NEC 2023 changes the surge protection requirements and the location of the SPD. 230.67 Surge Protection
"All services supplying dwelling units shall be provided with a surge-protective device (SPD)."
Location
The surge-protective device shall be installed at or within the service equipment, distribution equipment, or a panelboard. "
NEC 2023 Impacts on Your Condo Project
With NEC 2023, the location of the SPD increases to be the service equipment, distribution equipment, or a panelboard. Since it now mentions panelboard, it is safe to assume that this means the condos panels must be protected as well.
Summary and Recommendations NEC 2020 (Current)
SPD is REQUIRED at the main service (meter center). The individual condo panels are most likely not required unless otherwise required by AHJ.
NEC 2023 (Future)
SPD is REQUIRED at the main service (meter center), and at the individual condo panels.
Important Considerations
Local Amendments
Always check with your local Florida jurisdiction (city or county) for any amendments to the NEC. They may have more stringent requirements. Talk to the local AHJ before starting any work.
AHJ Interpretation
The final authority on code interpretation is always the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Discuss your design with them to ensure compliance.
Manufacturer Recommendations
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the installation and maintenance of the SPD devices.
Best Practice
Even if not strictly required by NEC 2020 at the individual panels, adding SPDs there is generally considered a best practice for enhanced protection. It creates a layered defense against surges. This is an upsell opportunity for the condo owners.*
Coordination
Ensure the SPDs are properly sized and coordinated to work effectively together.
In short: Plan for NEC 2023 now. It's likely to become code and will add value to the condos and protect your reputation. Always confirm with the local AHJ. Flag for review