"DIY hardware" home automation - legal issues? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: aurmer
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 08:24:12 am
content: When I am looking at DIY home automation options, I am considering designing my own controllers so they all speak the same protocol and can all be controlled together instead of an app for each device (this would also be cheaper).But I don't know anything about the legal side. What change to my home requires a licensed electrician's inspection? And can custom hardware (thermostat controller for example) actually pass an inspection? I understand that commercial products must be approved as safe before sold.It seems difficult to google this topics.(One thing I do understand is that, as long as I am not planning on selling, renting, or filing an insurance claim... I can do whatever I want because its my house.)

author: jeroen79
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 09:03:17 am
content: Where do you live?

author: viperidae
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 09:23:22 am
content: You will have to look at the laws of your country. They all vary widely. In NZ any change to fixed mains wiring must be signed of my a licensed electrician. Any access behind a fuse/switchboard must be done bya licensed electrician. Pretty much all you can do yourself is replace switches plugs and lights.I think it's even more strict in Aussie from what I've heard Dave say on eevblog

author: Benta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 09:40:14 am
content: One thing is the regulations, more serious is loss of insurance cover, eg, if something catches fire.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 11:52:48 am
content: You have the US flag displayed for your location. The installation must be compliant with the US National Electrical Code, but whether inspection or work permits are required depends on your State laws and local town/city bylaws.Worst case: you may have to get a permit from city hall, pay a licensed electrician to install heavy duty relays or contactors in all circuits you want to control, with their low voltage coils wired to a plug-in connector, and mains coil relays with isolated contacts for all circuits you need to monitor, then pay for an inspection. You *should* then be OK to plug in your own low voltage control system.I would be very wary of any wired in home-built power control modules. You really should use off-the-shelf relays, contactors, remote power switches and dimmer modules with UL approval.TLDR: SEEKQUALIFIEDLOCAL ADVICE before doing anythingIANAL. YMMV.

author: Naguissa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 01:06:30 pm
content: Not any idea about this, but only a "happy" idea:Maybe you can bypass all regulations using approved power supplies and low dc voltage, something below your law requires to approve by a technician.Enviado desde mi Jolla mediante Tapatalk

author: aurmer
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 01:08:25 pm
content: Sorry, I didn't specify I am in Texas.It makes sense that these requirements would vary depending on local laws. This sounds like good advice. I obviously don't want to burn my house down. I will look into getting relays installed to code.

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 01:57:56 pm
content: There is software designed to integrate multiple automation systems. Look into OpenHAB, for example.