electrical cable across the neighborhood

[FlipFlopDude]

The next door neighbor has run an electrical cable across our property, right where I park my car. It's only buried about an inch under the dirt, now who wouldn’t worry about this! They're using it to power their garage and their electric car charger.

They're saying it's okay because they put the cable inside a green plastic tube, like a garden hose. They think this means they've followed NEC rules.

I’m still not confinced about the safety. Especially because I drive my car over it all the time, and it's right outside our back gate, so anyone walking by could also get to it.

Look, I don’t understand about all the technical stuff. But from what I've been reading about these NEC rules, it sounds like this cable should be a particular type like Steel Wire Armoured and it should be buried much deeper in the ground.

Can anyone who knows about this stuff give me some advice on what we should do? I’m sure I’m not wrong for worrying about everyone’s safety

 

[biggabytes]

Nah I think thats kinda dangerous lol, and they got no rights to run anything on your property. I suggest you just go and politely ask them to remove it. You dont have to care about any rules, that is just some simple common sense, they can put it within their property. After all, your safety is YOUR concern.

 

[WireWhisperer]

The next door neighbor has run an electrical cable across our property, right where I park my car. It's only buried about an inch under the dirt, now who wouldn't worry about this! They're using it to power their garage and their electric car charger.

They're saying it's okay because they put the cable inside a green plastic tube, like a garden hose. They think this means they've followed NEC rules.

I'm still not confinced about the safety. Especially because I drive my car over it all the time, and it's right outside our back gate, so anyone walking by could also get to it.

Look, I don't understand about all the technical stuff. But from what I've been reading about these NEC rules, it sounds like this cable should be a particular type like Steel Wire Armoured and it should be buried much deeper in the ground.

Can anyone who knows about this stuff give me some advice on what we should do? I'm sure I'm not wrong for worrying about everyone's safety

You're right to be concerned. A garden hose doesn't meet the codes,the NEC requires proper conduit and specific burial depths, usually around 18 for PVC. Plus, with cars driving over it, that's a risky situation. I'd suggest having a chill conversation with them, and if they don't make it right, get your local inspector in the loop. Safety is key

 

[CircuitRick]

The next door neighbor has run an electrical cable across our property, right where I park my car. It's only buried about an inch under the dirt, now who wouldn't worry about this! They're using it to power their garage and their electric car charger.

They're saying it's okay because they put the cable inside a green plastic tube, like a garden hose. They think this means they've followed NEC rules.

I'm still not confinced about the safety. Especially because I drive my car over it all the time, and it's right outside our back gate, so anyone walking by could also get to it.

Look, I don't understand about all the technical stuff. But from what I've been reading about these NEC rules, it sounds like this cable should be a particular type like Steel Wire Armoured and it should be buried much deeper in the ground.

Can anyone who knows about this stuff give me some advice on what we should do? I'm sure I'm not wrong for worrying about everyone's safety

I wouldn't bore you with the technical details of the NEC because setting up an electrical cable like that isn't a typical DIY. It's clearly a violation! I hope politely discussing this matter to your neighbor will solve this one. But if it doesn't, consider contacting your local building department or a licensed electrician. They would be able to assess and handle the situation properly, and advise on the correct and safe way to install the wiring!

 

[Deleted member 119]

It's your property!?!?
"Have a chill word"!?????
Grow a pair and tell them to remove it or get a pair of rubber gloves and remove it yourself.
What you gonna do if it's unsafe and kills you or your family?
Mind you funerals are very chill.

 

[PGB1]

I like the suggestions from others about speaking to the neighbor peacefully first. A smooth bed sheet is a lot more comfortable than a wrinkled one!

Ideally, they will move the conductors to their own property. If there is some reason that they can't- And If You Agree to having it on your land- please have them follow proper codes for the jurisdiction and have the work done under permit with inspection.

One bit of fuel for the discussion will be eddy currents and current leakage. At such a shallow depth, you are potentially subject to carrying currents. That's why electrical services can't be under swimming pools.

I hope things go smoothly for you!
Paul
PS: Let us know how it all turns out.

 

[ShockSurge]

Totally get why you're concerned,it's your property and safety is a big deal. The NEC has clear rules about how deep those cables need to be buried and what kind of conduit to use.A garden hose definitley ain't it. That setup isn't safe, especially with cars and folks walking all over it.

 

[andre_bball]

Yeah, get a certified electrical inspector to check that out ASAP. Be sure to take some pics and keep records of how deep it's buried too.

 

[PGB1]

One misplaced shovel = Bad Stuff for whoever is holding the shovel.

Assuming you are covered by the National Electrical Code in the United States:
Perhaps, if you have time, search on line for NFPA 70 Article 300. Look at the tables on 300.5. That will clarify the burial depth for each type of cable or conduit in each type of circuit.

Remember that yours is under a driveway. (Pretty much 24" for any type of allowed conduit or cable) Key Word: Allowed