Bruce Balch: Electrical Inspector
Covering New York counties: Clinton, Essex, Franklin, including Plattsburgh, NY
- Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Electrical Inspections
- Electrical Design Review and Planning
- Electrical Consulting

Phone: (518) 569-9533
Email: bbalch.ceis@yahoo.com

   
Frequently Asked Questions

We try to anticipate questions you might have about our services and provide the answers here. If you need additional information send email to bbalch.ceis@yahoo.com.

 

1.

What is your inspection fee?

The minimum fee is $110. This would be for a simple residential inspection such as 200 amp service entrance involving 1 trip. Factors such as number of trips, location, number of outlets, size of building, phone time, short notice, violations, etc, will affect the fee. The inspection fee is due at the time of the initial inspection.


2.

What type of electrical installations need to be inspected?

All electrical installations that extend wiring or add any new electrical equipment must be inspected as required by the local municipality and the State of New York. In addition a building permit may be required by the local municipality. In addition, the utility company requires an electrical inspection for any changes to the service equipment or an existing service that has been turned off due to a fire or other reasons. Other government agencies such as USDA or HUD may also require electrical inspections.


3.

Can I conceal wiring or cover underground wiring in a trench before inspection?

NO! All concealed wiring whether in a wall/ceiling or underground in a trench must be inspected before walls/ceilings are covered with insulation, drywall or trenches backfilled. This also includes bonding of in-ground pools.


4.

How deep must the trench be for underground wiring?

This depends on a number of factors such as the wiring method used, GFCI protection, size of conductors, location of trench, etc. as outlined in article 300-5 of the NEC and requirements of the utility company. Also all wiring methods must be approved for underground use.


5.

Does all wiring need to be completed for final inspection?

Yes. There shall be no open boxes and all faceplates, covers and fixtures must be installed. If appliances such as dishwashers are not installed, then open cables must be terminated in a box with a blank faceplate. All new circuits must be identified on the panel directory