In Pennsylvania, an electrical inspection may be required to have electricity turned on by an energy company. This is because the electrical system needs to be deemed as safe before the power can be restored, so that people and buildings will be protected from hazardous circumstances. This type of electrical inspection is known as “reintroduction of service” or “re-intro” for short. There are various electrical situations that require a re-intro performed in both residential and commercial properties. If you are not familiar with what a re-intro is or why you need it, we are here to help!
Re-intros must be conducted by a certified electrical underwriter (we are certified with the Commonwealth of PA) who will issue a certificate stating that the electrical system abides by the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements. To make sure that the inspection is completely unbiased, the electrical underwriters of a third party agency are hired to complete the task in connection with the specific utility company. An electrical contractor would not be able to perform a re-intro because it would cause confliction between authorities having jurisdiction, especially if they are doing work on the same property.
To have your electrical service in Bucks County, PA restored, a reintroduction of service is necessary for multiple situations.
- The electricity has been shut off for more than six months in a commercial building, apartment, or home
- A fire has occurred in the dwelling
- The property suffered damages due to a storm or other emergency
- The electrical system was replaced (requires a permit for which the agency would be listed as the inspection company)
A fee is charged for the inspection but the price varies depending on whether the building is residential or non-residential. During the inspection for the re-intro, components of the electrical system are checked for any issues or errors. The electrical underwriter will make sure that:
- All components are firmly attached to the building
- Electrical parts are in good condition
- The meter socket and service entry cable are not worn or cracked
- The breaker panel has used openings, correct breaker sizes or wiring, and double taps on breakers (unless manufacturer permits it)
- Structural integrity is in place
- The grounding and bonding are accurate and secure
The inspection for re-intro only takes about fifteen minutes and if the electrical system is approved, the required certificate will be sent to the utility company. However, if issues are detected and the inspection fails, a list of repairs required to comply with code requirements is provided. Once those repairs are fixed, another inspection must be scheduled. If you need reintroduction of service, give us a call today, as we are a certified third party agency in PA. In fact, we are recommended first by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry for electrical inspection!
