Light switch unfinished basement
7/20/2023 at 8:31:42 PM
Hello
We have an unfinished basement and the 3 way light switch was installed by the stairs.
This was originally attached to a hanging 2x4, it's now attached to the concrete floor however is this a safety issue with the box not attached fully and sharp edges and screws sticking out? and is it worth getting an Esa inspector to check it.
7/21/2023 at 10:23:23 PM
Switches must be attached to a framing member at regulation height, those ones on a 2x4 out of ceiling is the builder just throwing it up so it is temporarily out of the way and accessible, most people leave them there. if you remove it or are developing basement it has to be done to code. Concrete floor??, not sure what you mean? no one installs electrical on a concrete floor. If that pic is the current location and wiring? I see so many things wrong, get a licensed electrician in to look at it and install properly.
7/22/2023 at 11:44:38 AM
Hi Rina,
Agree with John. While it looks tidy, there are SO many things wrong with that install. And, if that is questionable to say the least, what of the other work done is not to code?
A licensed electrician will be able to check the house for other issues and bring it up to code. Find someone who you feel you can work with and ask for detailed estimates to complete the work.
Dan
7/22/2023 at 9:49:17 AM
Since it's an unfinished basement would code apply at this point?
The switch is just attached on one side to a 2x4 that's attached to the basement concrete floor.
7/23/2023 at 8:12:16 PM
The original pic & details you sent made no sense, the last ones look like a standard install of a 3-gang box, don't worry about it. Use a professional though when you finish the basement.
7/24/2023 at 12:11:02 PM
Hello Rina
What you have there is pretty typical for a preparation for a future finished basement. There are some minor issues with what you have, but nothing that is unsafe in my opinion. When your electrical contractor comes when you are finishing your basement, they will tidy things up and likely relocate what you have there if required.
If you are worried about the sharp edges or knocking the box off the stud, you could install a second stud on the opposite side to support the box. From a code perspective, it should be supported, but as I mentioned, this is pretty typical for a temporary installation.
Cheers
John Kuehnl-Cadwell, CD, ME
Master Electrician
Datawise Solutions Inc
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