Okay, let's break down Article 225 and its application to your situation. You're right to focus on the location of the service point and service equipment. However, the feeder rules in Article 225 are triggered when you're sending power from one building or structure to another.

Understanding the Key Definitions



Service Point

This is the point of connection between the serving utility and the premises wiring. It's usually the line side of the service disconnect.

Service Equipment

This includes the main service disconnect(s), overcurrent protection, and associated equipment intended to constitute the main control and cutoff of the supply.

Feeder

All circuit conductors between the service equipment, the source of a separately derived system, or other power supply source and the final branch-circuit overcurrent device.

Scenario 1: Remote Service Location with Sub-Breakers

You have a service point and service equipment outside the house, supplying sub-breakers that feed panels inside. This is GENERALLY acceptable if those sub-breakers are themselves considered part of the service equipment assembly at the remote location, OR, if the feeders from those sub-breakers to the house panels are compliant to Article 225.

Here's why it works (if installed correctly)



Service Equipment Location

The key here is that the entire service equipment, including the service disconnect and overcurrent protection, is located outside. The sub-breakers act as feeders after the service disconnect.

Feeder Rules Apply

The conductors from the sub-breakers to the panels in the house are considered feeders. They must comply with Article 225 if they supply a separate building or structure. However, since they supply panels within the same structure (the house), Article 225 does not require any additional safety measures for these feeders.

Scenario 2: Service Outside House with Sub-fed Panels

In this situation, the service point and service equipment are located outside the house, with a main distribution panel containing sub-breakers that feed the house panels. The distinction between scenarios is that this electrical service stands on the outside of the home, implying that the service and panels inside the house are separate.

Here's why it might NOT work (without careful consideration)



Building or Structure Definition

The core issue is whether the house and the service equipment enclosure are considered separate "buildings or structures." If the service equipment is physically attached to the house and is determined to be part of the same structure, Article 225 requirements for multiple buildings/structures are not triggered. However, if it is determined to be a separate structure (even if it is attached), Article 225 requirements must be followed.

Feeder Rules Apply

Because the feeder runs from the service equipment to the panels inside the house, Article 225 applies. This means that the feeders must have a disconnecting means on the house (building) side of the run.

Why the Contractor is Likely Questioning It

Your contractor is likely concerned about 225.32, which states: 225.32 Disconnecting Means. Means shall be provided for disconnecting all ungrounded conductors that supply or pass through the building or structure.This is the heart of the issue. If the service equipment is considered a separate structure, then Article 225 requires a disconnecting means (usually a main breaker) at the point where the feeder enters the house. If the disconnect is installed in the main panel in the house, and if that main panel is fed by a sub-breaker in the service equipment, then the feeder must follow all of Article 225.

Clarification and Solutions

To determine compliance, consider the following:1.

Definition of "Building or Structure"

This is the critical point. Is the service equipment enclosure truly part of the house structure, or is it considered a separate entity? Consult with your local electrical inspector, as they have the final say on this interpretation.2.

Physical Attachment

How is the service equipment enclosure attached to the house? Is it integrated into the building's architecture, or is it a standalone unit merely placed adjacent to the house?3.

Functionality

Does the service equipment enclosure serve only the house, or does it supply other loads separate from the house?

Possible Solutions



Relocate Service Equipment

The simplest solution to alleviate all concerns is to move the main service disconnect and overcurrent protection inside the house. This eliminates the feeder running to the house altogether.

Add a Disconnect at the House

Add a main breaker in the panel located in the house. This satisfies 225.32. This breaker would need to be appropriately sized for the feeder and the load it serves.

Service Rated Panel

The main service equipment outside is service rated. The sub-breaker can feed a main panel in the house. This main panel would need to be appropriately sized and service rated, but allows for the service to be on the outside of the house.

In Summary

The key is the interpretation of "building or structure" and the presence of a disconnecting means at the house, as required by Article 225. If the service equipment is clearly considered part of the house (integrated into its structure), then Article 225's building/structure requirements might not apply. However, if it's deemed a separate structure, you must comply with 225.32 by adding a disconnecting means at the house.

Best Practice:

Always consult with your local electrical inspector before* starting the project. They can provide a definitive ruling on whether Article 225 applies based on the specific details of your installation. Their interpretation is what matters for code compliance. Good luck! Flag for review