Jesse, you're in a tough spot, but you're handling it responsibly. Here's a breakdown of how to navigate this potentially dangerous situation, drawing on experience from others who've faced similar issues

Your Assessment is Spot-On
Smart to Back Away

You made the right call by not doing the repair yourself without the proper business structure (insurance, bonding, etc.). You protect yourself and the church from liability.

Compromised Wiring

Your assessment of the subfeeds is accurate. Overheated conductors have damaged insulation and potentially weakened strands. They must be replaced.

Cheap Landlord

This is the core problem. Landlords who prioritize saving money over safety are a recipe for disaster.

Immediate Actions and Considerations1. Document Everything

This is crucial for any potential legal action.

Photos

Take many, detailed photos of the damaged panel, the overheated wiring, and any other relevant observations.

Written Record

Keep a log of all conversations (dates, times, who you spoke to, what was discussed), including what the maintenance guy said and what you advised.

HVAC Tech's Report

Obtain a written report from the HVAC technician who initially identified the problem. This adds credibility to your concerns.2.

Focus on Safety

The priority is preventing a fire or injury.

Keep it Locked Out

Ensure the feeder breaker to that panel remains locked out until the repair is verified as safe and compliant.

Communicate the Danger

Clearly and firmly communicate in writing to the landlord (and copy the church leadership) that operating the electrical system in its current condition poses an imminent fire and safety hazard. Be blunt. Don't mince words.3.

Code Enforcement

This is often your best leverage.

Inform Code Enforcement

Call your local city/county building department and report the dangerous electrical condition. Explain that the landlord is aware of the hazard but may be attempting a substandard repair. This forces the landlord to get permits and inspections. Be prepared to provide documentation (photos, your log).

Certified Electrician Required

Insist that a licensed electrical contractor pull the permit and do the work. The landlord might try to skirt this, but code enforcement can prevent it.

How to Handle the Potential Scenarios Scenario A: Landlord Refuses to Replace Subfeeds Immediate Action

This is a non-starter. If the landlord refuses, inform the church leadership immediately and reiterate the imminent danger in writing.

Code Enforcement (Again)

Escalate the issue to code enforcement. Show them the photos of the damaged wiring.

Legal Consultation

This is where the church's lawyer-members become involved. They can send a demand letter to the landlord outlining the legal consequences of failing to address the safety hazard.

Consider Alternative Locations

If the landlord remains unresponsive and the building is deemed unsafe, the church may need to consider temporarily relocating services until the electrical issue is resolved. Safety is paramount.

Scenario B: Subpar Job with Code Violations Inspection

Regardless of who does the work, demand an inspection by the local building department. Attend the inspection yourself with your camera ready.

Document Violations

Carefully document any code violations you observe (incorrect wire gauge, improper connections, lack of grounding, etc.).

Report Violations

Report the violations to the inspector and follow up to ensure they are corrected.

Third-Party Inspection

If you're concerned about the inspector being lenient, consider hiring a private, independent electrical inspector to review the work.

Scenario C: Continued Requests for Advice Politely Decline

You're a good Samaritan, but you're not being paid, and you're not the responsible party. Politely but firmly decline to offer further advice.

Refer to a Professional

Tell the maintenance guy to consult with a licensed electrician. "I've given you some initial guidance, but this needs to be handled by a qualified professional with the proper licensing and insurance."

Focus on Your Church's Interests

Remind yourself that your responsibility is to protect the church and its members from harm.

Legal Considerations Negligence

If the landlord is aware of the dangerous electrical condition and fails to take reasonable steps to correct it, they could be held liable for negligence if someone is injured or property is damaged.

Breach of Lease

The lease agreement likely contains clauses requiring the landlord to maintain the property in a safe and habitable condition. Failing to address a known safety hazard could be a breach of the lease.

Constructive Eviction

If the building becomes uninhabitable due to the landlord's negligence, the church may have grounds to terminate the lease without penalty.

Key Takeaways Safety First

Prioritize the safety of the church's members.

Documentation is King

Meticulously document everything.

Leverage Code Enforcement

They are your most powerful ally.

Don't Be Afraid to Escalate

If the landlord is unresponsive, don't hesitate to involve code enforcement, lawyers, and church leadership.

Protect Yourself: Avoid performing any work yourself without the proper licensing and insurance.This is a challenging situation, but by being proactive, documenting everything, and leveraging the appropriate resources, you can help ensure the safety of your church and its members. Good luck, Jesse. You're doing the right thing. Flag for review