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Electrical Question

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Lebron23

Sophomore Member
Joined
May 29, 2006
Professional Status
Certified Residential Appraiser
State
Ohio
The subject property still has fuses. I researched the handbook and can't find the reference. Is this allowed ?? Thanks and Happy Easter.
 
Nothing WRONG with fuses - if there are enough of them
What size house (GLA),
How big is electric service (60amp, 100amp, 125amp),
How many circuits?
 
Fuses are O.K.......................
 
Buyers are having trouble getting fire insurance from some coimoanies when the home has fuses......
 
Buyers are having trouble getting fire insurance from some companies when the home has fuses......
That's interesting; have to wonder at reasoning....

I used to run into 40 and 60 amp service in run-down rows in Philly, some with only 4 total fused circuits.
(Actually saw one home that had one 30 amp main fuse that fed total of two 15 amp circuits)
I'd photo the box, in the report, I'd note the capacity of system & number of circuits, and say something like -
"The size of the electric service and number of individual circuits available may be inadequate, compared to current standards".

At that point -job done- I've pointed out a potential problem.

On other hand, I have no problem with calling for replacement of
an electrical service entry-cable with sun-rotted insulation - That's a clear current safety hazard.
.
 
Here's the reference link;

http://www.HUD.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/ref/sfhp1-26.cfm
 
Knob and tubing

The knob and tubing statement is a change. FHA used require it be changed.





Wayne Tomlinson
 
As long as the correct amperage fuses are used, fuses are fine. Knob and tube if undisturbed is superior to Romex. Often the wiring has asbestos insulation.

Many of the old fuse boxes are of superior quality to modern circuit breaker load centers. The problem with fuses is that it is too easy to use a larger fuse or go with a penny as the old standby.
 
HERE IS THE INFORMATION IN HANDBOOK 4150.2 APPENDIX D DATED 1-06. IT ALSO REFERS TO THE MPS (MINIMUM PROPERTY STANDARDS) IN HUD HANDBOOK 4905.1.

HOPE THIS HELPS

Check mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems in the subject property to ensure that they are in proper working order. This examination entails turning on the applicable systems and observing their performance. If any conditions exist that would affect the health or safety of the occupants, condition the appraisal on the “repair or alteration” of the condition and/or a “required inspection.” The following is not an all-inclusive list, but a listing of the more common readily observable property deficiencies.

Electrical System
  • Examine the electrical system to ensure that there is no visible frayed wiring, or exposed wires in living areas and that there is adequate amperage for the appliances present in the property.
  • Operate a representative number of lighting fixtures, switches and receptacles inside the house, garage and on the exterior walls and note any deficiencies. If the appliances present at the time of the inspection do not appear to be reasonable (undersized), determine if there is adequate amperage to run “standard” appliances, as per local code.
· The appraiser is not required to insert any tool, probe or testing device inside the panels or to dismantle any electrical device or control.
 
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