Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: Loyd22, Location: The incredible, yet very expensive, Hudson Valley,
Asked on: Friday, April 29, 2011 at 8:32 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:48 am EDT
Question: Im in the process of taking my Contractors test but I primarily do new construction and of course im going to be doing service as a contractor.I live in Oklahoma btw if that matters.When rebuilding a service for an existing house that the riser is NOT going through the eaves and 3 feet past the roof line (which is what we do to new overhead services), Do I HAVE to go through their eaves or can I replace it the way they had it with the weatherhead directly under the roofline.And also, what if the house itself doesnt have a eave to go through but fascia boards that stick out 2-3 inches. Do I have to 45 around those and up for the service if I cant bend the pipe?Basically, for an older home can I rebuild the riser and weatherhead the way it was or have to go by today's code and take it above the roofline?Do I
Oklahoma Electrical Code Requirements
According to the Oklahoma Electrical Code (OEC) Article 230.54(D), in the absence of specific local requirements, overhead service-entrance conductors must be installed as follows: Where they enter through a roof or wall, the conductors shall extend vertically from the point of entry not less than 18 inches above the roof surface. Where they enter through an eave spout or through other openings in the roof or wall, they shall extend vertically from the point of entry not less than 6 feet above the roof surface.
Interpretation for Existing Houses
Based on the OEC requirements, for an existing house where the riser is not already through the eaves or 3 feet past the roof line, you are
required to bring the service-entrance conductors vertically from the point of entry at least 18 inches above the roof surface. This requirement applies even if the original service was not installed to this standard.
Exceptions
If there are architectural features or other obstructions that prevent you from meeting the 18-inch requirement, you may obtain a variance from the local electrical inspector. If the house does not have eaves, you will need to install a service mast or other approved means to extend the conductors above the roof line. You may need to trim or remove fascia boards to accommodate the mast or pipe.
Conclusion:
For an older home, you are required to rebuild the riser and weatherhead according to today's code and take it above the roofline, unless you receive a variance from the electrical inspector. Flag for review