"Ask the Lady Electrical Inspector ” Bi-Weekly Podcast Hosted by Tabatha L.

In episode 54, Tabatha L covers:· What building classifications are· Where they come from· How they impact electrical installations· Why misunderstanding them leads to failed inspections and unsafe systemsAsk the Lady explains that understanding how a building performs during a fire is important to the preservation of life and that minimum construction standards are designed to preserve structural integrity long enough for occupants to evacuate or relocate to a place of safety.This information is important for homeowners, businesses, contractors, and inspectors. Tune in and learn.

In this episode, Tabatha L addresses various questions/issues:1. Junction boxes on ceiling grid wires2. Alternatives for grounding a detached permanent structure when there is no way to get water ground to house3. Regulation around adding a bidet or heated floor to an existing bathroom circuit4. Insurance requiring panel replacement5. Responsibility for owner-furnished equipment6. Regulation around pull chains vs wall switches7. Permits for residential elevatorsTune in and learn!

In this episode, Tabatha L discusses failed inspections for NEMA 3R Enclosures and the only listed connector approved for conduit entry above uninsulated live parts in a NEMA 3R enclosure. Other key points covered for installations are:Water-tight fittingsLocation constraints for conduit entriesProper sealing of openingsWhy top entry should generally be avoidedTune in for invaluable tips for passing inspection.

In this episode, Tabatha L provides listeners with inside knowledge of what electrical inspectors look for when inspecting solar panel installations. This knowledge is based on the National Electrical Code’s (NEC) standards across the United States. She not only provides information but shares how to remedy the issues that can cause a failed inspection.Reference: NEC - Article 690

In this 50th episode of Ask the Lady Electrical Inspector, Tabatha L addresses some of the most significant updates to the National Electrical Code (NEC) for the year 2026.The primary themes of the 2026 NEC revisions include:Expanded safety protocols addressing new technologies and configurations.A reorganized code-structure aimed at enhancing clarity and usability.A focus on emerging technologies, such as electric vehicle infrastructure and energy management systems.Alignment with future developments, providing a foundation for the NEC 2029 cycle.Towards the end of this episode, there is a special call-out regarding NEC updates that will impact those who are electrical contractors, inspectors, and apprentices.

In this episode, Tabatha L takes time to delve into questions received from listeners, those within and outside the electrical industry. She provides answers according to code and the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

In this episode, Tabatha L gives a brief overview of tankless water heater equipment—systems that have gained popularity and have become essential to modern living. As Tabatha L does in all her podcasts, she provides common reasons these systems fail electrical inspection and gives solutions for experiencing a successful inspection.

In this episode, Tabatha L discusses electrical systems that obtain power independent of the building’s main utility power source. These systems are called—Separately Derived Systems. NEC Article 100 is a point of reference for this discussion. As inspector Tabatha L normally does, she explains common reasons these systems often fail electrical inspections and how to remedy the issues according to NEC standards.

In this episode, Tabatha L discusses Temporary Meter Poles—temporary structures for powering construction sites and emergency setups prior to establishing permanent electrical connections. She covers the following:Details of the design, purpose, and typical usesWhen they are requiredGuidelines provided by utility companies and equipment manufacturers—highlighting approved materials, installation procedures, and safety protocolsCommon reasons they fail electrical inspection

Tabatha L. provides safety protocols for electrical appliances and gives the reasons these appliances may cause an electrical inspection to fail. Article 422 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) is the point of reference for this discussion.

Tabatha L returns to her podcast after a brief break with answers to questions listeners have submitted for both home and business owners. She addresses electrical codes related to walking on ceilings, the placement of power lines on personal and business properties for utility connections, the usage of expanding spray foam, and more!

In this episode, Tabatha L welcomes special guest, Rob Vandevoort, Mechanical Inspector, as she discusses common reasons why installations for air conditioning units fail electrical inspections. Tabatha L provides best practices for ensuring these installations pass electrical inspection.Her guest, Rob, reports having 22 years of experience in the HVAC trade of which 12 years have been dedicated to installations in the states of southern Illinois, Oklahoma and Arizona, as a journeyman installer. During this episode, Rob, Mechanical Inspector, shares his best practices for air conditioning installations.

Listen as Tabatha L discusses the practices of electrical safety when charging electric vehicles, not limited to home installations for these chargers.

Welcome to this special edition. In this episode, Tabatha L reflects on the EF3 tornado that ripped through areas of St. Louis on May 16, 2025, and shares the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) Electrical Inspection policy for recovery after such a storm involving electrical work. Below are some specific areas that are covered during the podcast:· Height regulations for electrical installations· Maintenance of weather heads· Prevention of water leaks· Prerequisites for power being restoredAnd more!

Listen in as Tabatha L addresses topics not limited to:- Who is the AHJ?- EMT conduit vs Mineral Insulated cable for two-fire rating- Building permit questions- Local authority and Federal Pacific electrical panels

Have you ever wondered what those big red pipes and pumps are that you’ve seen in some buildings, especially stairwells? In this episode, Tabatha L discusses what these pipes and pumps are, their various reliable power sources, and what makes that source reliable. Installation practices and safety is covered as well for this topic.

In this episode, Tabatha L welcomes a special guest, Bill Snyder, as she discusses the rules for modifications to electric switchboards and panelboards (also known as “tapping the bus”). Bill, a commercial journeyman and creator of Nat King Code, joins Tabatha L as she discusses:*Local authority requirements that align with National Electrical Code safety requirements*Guidelines from utility companies, equipment manufacturers, or independent evaluation groups

In this episode, Tabatha L provides NEC requirements for the usage of spray foam in conjunction with electrical installations. She also highlights common issues found during electrical inspections and provides tips for not allowing these type issues hinder your project goals.