On Nov 2, 3:46*pm, "Pete C." wrote:
Jon Danniken wrote:

HeyBub wrote:

An alternative is to install a breaker-box yourself. You can get
everything you need at the box store and, with an afternoon's* work,
you should be able to swap out the fuse box for a 200 Amp service.

Should cost about $300.

Around here, as I suspect is the case in most areas, that would mean having
the utility come out to disconnect main power and then come back out to
reconnect it, and they won't reconnect it without a licensed electrician
signing off on the work.

Those three charges would need to be added to your $300 estimate.


The places I'm familiar with, an electrical permit and inspection by the
local building inspector are what is required. Nowhere is there a
requirement for a licensed electrician, and the utility does not charge
for the disconnect or reconnect.

Well, it's different around here. It's exactly the reverse, except
you could "forget" to pull a building permit and not get popped. The
electric company is quite specific in their requirements.

4.2 CHANGE OF SERVICE PROCEDURES
In recognition of the timing and coordination problems involved in the
disconnect and reconnect of simple single phase residential overhead
services, where modifications or upgrading of existing service
entrances are involved, the procedure known as LIPA CONNECTS is to be
used. The purpose of LIPA CONNECTS is to minimize the licensed
electrical contractor’s time and effort while affording them a measure
of protection by authorization to handle specific LIPA facilities
without fear of prosecution for tampering or diversion of current. It
will also provide the LIPA with a control mechanism and minimize the
estimating of unmetered consumption (Forms in front of
book).

It is entirely possible that your power company has a requirement that
is not enforced by your local building department, and thus you might
not be aware of it.

R