The problem with split buss panels is that at the time the NEC allowed up to
6 main disconnects in them. In the original installation there wouldn't be a
problem as the electrician calculated the load of the building and sized the
mains accordingly, the problems with split buss, multiple main panels arise
later, when other people, not always professionals add to the original
mains, without recalculating the entire building load, and possibly
overloading the main entrance feeder. This situation can't occur when the
entrance feeder has only one disconnect. In my opinion, it isn't a
violation, so I don't believe it's something the seller should be
responsible for paying for, however for my own peace of mind I would have a
professional do a load calculation, or have a single main disconnect
installed



wrote in message
ups.com...
We are in the process of buying a home and as part of the home
inspection it was found there was not a main disconnet in the
electrical panel. The sellers agreed to have one installed. They
just sent us note from a contractor stating "The panel in question is
a spIit bus bar panel with a main breaker for lighting and
receptacles only. Although it is outdated it is not an unsafe system.
These panels were
used frequently in new construction through the 1970's. (The house was
built in 1982)

My question: Is this something that really should be updated? We have
2 small children plus my parents lost everything in an electrical
fire several years back so I am pretty concerned.

Any advice, thoughts, would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks