Electric Clearance

One of the most common issues found during a home inspection is poor clearance to the electric panel or service. The electric panel could be placed in just about any location of a home. We have found them in closets, kitchens, basements, garages and hallways.

While the specific location might have some jurisdictional requirements there is one standard that is consistent across the country. An electric panel must have at least 30 inches of clearance from side to side and at least 3 feet of clearance from front to back. This is the magic work zone or clearance that has to be maintained at all times.

A wall could be finished in a basement and this wall could be enclosing the panel into a closet or behind an impediment. If there is not a 3 foot clearance zone between the panel and the wall, the wall is not correct.

This clearance has been created for the safety of the electrician or anyone else coming into contact with panel. The inspection or service of the electric panel is very dangerous. Coming into contact with live electricity can cause injury or even death.

Your The BrickKicker inspector is an expert on the electric distribution and identifying the visual issues of the electric system of a home. Please reach out to them with any questions you might have with your electric panel or system.