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

This episode includes excerpts from just three of Tabatha L's best shows:Storm-related Electrical Work (St. Louis Tornado in May 2025) - episode 41Inground Swimming Pools - episode 36Generator Installation Requirements - episode 20Tune in and re-visit any of these episodes in their entirety.

In this episode, Tabatha L discusses the problem of electrical work being started without the prerequisite of a permit and the issues it presents in remedying unauthorized work.Tune in to find out how to avoid legal issues.

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.

In this episode, Tabatha L provides guidelines for installing swimming pools as it relates to the National Electrical Code (NEC) and common reasons these installations fail inspection. She also emphasizes the importance of spotting problems with swimming pool wiring methods and electrical installation, coupled with tips to help make your inspections easier. NEC FOCUS: Article 680

While most establishments today use copper wiring, structures in the 60s and 70s used aluminum wiring. That type of wiring we know today is a risk for starting fires and they require repair. In this episode, Tabatha L explores requirements for stakeholders not limited to: The US Product Safety Commission, insurance companies, business owners, and homeowners.Henry Anderson, a subject-matter expert who teaches electrical code, joins her later in the podcast to contribute vital information.

In this episode, Tabatha L dives into the NEC requirements related to lighted retail display showcase cabinets and how to ensure that the electrical components of these cabinets are safe from shocks and other risks.

Do you know the requirements for electrical services being turned on at an establishment or home? In this episode, Tabatha L discusses the importance of Meter-Out Electrical Inspections and their impact on safety. Also, listen as she shares some outcomes of failed meter-out inspections.

Drawing from her daily experiences while conducting electrical inspections, Tabatha L reveals NEC code articles that point to reasons these types of inspections fail and the importance of complying with the standards that will ensure safety. The episode concludes with answers to inquiries received from homeowners and industry professionals.

In this episode, Tabatha L explores a method developed in the United States from the late 1880s to the early 1940s for providing lighting and heat solutions for newly built or renovated homes—knob and tube wiring. She discusses the challenges associated with knob and tube wiring, particularly as it relates to fire damage and remodeling scenarios that arise during electrical inspections. The episode concludes with answers to inquiries received from homeowners and industry professionals.

In this episode, Tabatha L discusses the role that Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) play in electrical safety and reasons they may fail during electrical inspections. Major points covered are: 1) NEC standards and requirements that govern GFCIs and 2) common locations of GFCIs found during electrical inspections. She concludes the episode by answering questions submitted by the electrical industry and homeowners.

In this episode, Tabatha L outlines critical electrical standards and requirements for Article 200 and provides common reasons that this article will cause some inspections to fail. She also answers electrical questions received from homeowners and the electrical industry.

In episode 28, Tabatha L addresses common reasons that requirements in Article 110.26 will cause electrical inspections to fail. In addition to providing answers to questions submitted by electricians, Tabatha L answers a call from Denver, Colorado and provides guidance during this live call regarding disconnects, working clearance and checking for the absence of voltage.

In episode 28, Tabatha L addresses common reasons that requirements in Article 110.26 will cause electrical inspections to fail. In addition to providing answers to questions submitted by electricians, Tabatha L answers a call from Denver, Colorado and provides guidance during this live call regarding disconnects, working clearance and checking for the absence of voltage.

***This is a replay of the LIVE episode*** In this episode, Tabatha L covers Article 210.18 through 210.24 for NEC requirements electrical for installations and the application and relevance of these requirements in real-world scenarios. She also addresses common red flags found during inspections and the importance of adhering to the manufacturers' installation guidelines. The show is concluded with expert tips for navigating the NEC requirements to ensure a successful electrical inspection. Highlights: Office phone booth pods, Office furniture including tables, chairs, and lamps fall under this regulatory framework.

In this episode, Tabatha L discusses heated floor systems (electronic types) and 9 common reasons that these floors could fail inspection. Guidelines are provided to assist in passing the electrical inspection.

In this episode 25, Tabatha L addresses critical National Electrical Code requirements for LED lighted mirrors and corrective actions to pass electrical inspection. Tune in for a special Public Notice UL Solutions Warning. The episode concludes with Q&A for the electrical industry, homeowners and business owners.

In this episode 24, Tabatha L. follows up her last episode regarding residential kitchens with common reasons that commercial kitchens fail the electrical inspection. This discussion is not limited to the subject of wiring methods, romex cables, 1900 boxes and GFCI protection.

In this episode, Tabatha L presents the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements for new and remodeled kitchens. She explains the most common reasons electrical inspections fail for these projects and concludes the show by answering questions submitted by both contractors and homeowners.

In this episode, Tabatha L discusses the various reasons the electrical power components of custom chairs/seating may fail an electrical inspection. Custom seating can be found in various venues not limited to performance venues, theatres, salons, and educational facilities.

You find them in malls, airports, hospitals...various places. But have you thought about what powers them? In this episode, Tabatha L talks about the electrical requirements for kiosk.

In this episode, Tabatha L discusses emergency systems, such as generators. She discusses when and why a permit may be needed when installing a generator as well as why a generator may fail an inspection.

In this episode, Tabatha L looks at restoration of utility power and reasons why inspections are needed for fire/flood restoration projects. She closes out the episode addressing concerns for homeowners.

In this episode, Tabatha L answers questions from people in the electrical trade as well as homeowners. Some of the areas she covers are:What homeowners can/cannot do themselvesWhat people in the electrical trade can do on their own homesWhat can delay a projectWhat is a "meter out" inspection and when it is neededWhen homeowners or businesses might be under a "violation"Handling work under flood or fire damagesFor commercial jobs - why products/fixtures might fail an electrical inspectionWhy might you want your electrical contractor to order your electrical material (equipment, furniture, etc.) that will be installedHow to handle ending work with one contractor before obtaining a new contractor for incomplete projects

In episode 17, Tabatha L discusses common reasons corner-grounded delta systems (Grounded B Phase) fail electrical inspection.

In this episode, Tabatha L covers a list of reasons for failed final electrical inspections and common NEC code violations.

In this episode, Tabatha L. reviews practices for obtaining a Temporary Certificate of Electrical Occupancy.

In this episode, Tabatha L concludes her discussion on frequent reasons for failed service installations and violations on service electrical equipment.

In this episode, Tabatha L discusses frequent reasons for failed service installations.

This week is a collection of advice and best practices provided by Tabatha L from the first few podcasts she has given since the inception of the podcast on June 5, 2024, to both electricians and homeowners. Hear answers to questions about hot receptacle outlets, raceway systems, permits, bonding, and more! Stay tuned for a brand-new episode next week!

In Episode 11, Tabatha L helps listeners learn more about electrical ceiling cover installations and introduces best practices for these type projects, not limited to the discussion of acoustic ceiling panels.

In episode 10, Tabatha L discusses common electrical code violations on wall cover inspections before ending the show with answers to questions submitted by listeners.

In this episode, Tabatha L covers the basic requirements for beginning electrical work for commercial projects.

In episode 8, Tabatha L focuses on adhering to the National Electrical Code for the development of projects that blend multiple uses, such as residential, commercial, cultural, institutional, or entertainment, into one space.