What happens when you just cannot agree with the electrical inspector or other AHJ? You can appeal the decision if you meet any three conditions:
- The inspector's decision doesn't meet the true intent of the Code.
- The provisions of the Code do not apply to this specific situation.
- The decision is arbitrary or unreasonable (as it applies to alternatives or new materials).
Your explanation should address the following four items:
- Explain the conditions.
- State the AHJ's ruling.
- Briefly explain which of the three conditions that ruling meets and why.
- Briefly explain why your alternative makes sense and eliminates the problem(s) you identified in the previous step.
- Do not argue your case in the appeal. The purpose of the appeal is to show you have a case.
- If you aren't adept at formal argumentation, consider hiring someone to develop your argument structure.
- Be respectful to the AHJ and electrical board.
- Stay factual. If you cannot substantiate a fact, don't present it as a fact. Present it as an idea that merits further investigation (state why it does).
- Write clearly and remember that less is more. If you can state it in 100 words, aim for 50.