What's Wrong With This Picture? Electrical Panel Access

Answer:  Panel Interior Not Accessible

Caption:  "I just have to have a full length closet shelf at this height. Nothing else works for me!" (Honestly, we're not sure what this owner was thinking!)

Description:  The industry electrical panel clearance rule (also referred to as the 'working rule') is 30 inches to each side, top and bottom, and 36 inches to the front. This allows for repairs to be conducted easily and with a minimum of risk to the electrician. What you are seeing in this picture is not acceptable and is potentially dangerous.

Note also, the shelf support bracket is fastened to the wall on both sides of the panel. This likely indicates the installer did not pull an electrical permit.

This is a situation that should be corrected soon. The homeowner should remove the shelving, or a licensed electrician needs to relocate the panel if the owner insists on having their shelving mounted to the wall at this location.

Thanks to Gordon Glidden of our Michigan Inspection Team for this humorous, but serious catch. We at U.S. Inspect appreciate your detailed inspections!