I see surge protectors doubled into the main lugs constantly…
I keep getting mixed feedback as to whether or not this allowed. If it’s type 1 or type 2 surge protector, it may or may not be allowed. Some are saying no all together.
What are your thoughts?
That’s a big no. Those terminals are not rated for 2 conductors.
Yes, as Joe said, it has to do with the terminations not the surge protectors.
I agree with Joe. Regardless of the type it cannot be installed as shown in the pics.
What Joe said !!
That’s what I’ve always thought…
Insurance agent said they will not refer me any longer for their inspections because “he was a builder and he knows that’s the safest way to do it!” 
Wouldn’t it be nice if we could just make everyone happy! 
From builder to insurance agent. What’s next? Used car salesman?
Not dealing with people like him will make you happier!
He must have meant “fastest and easiest” way to do it. It sure as heck isn’t the safest.
Is it easiest?
How exactly are you de-energizing those main lugs?
Pulling the meter? Opening the pole fuse with your hot stick?
Most of the systems I see there is no way for anyone but the utility to safely add that in there.
I suppose you could just loosen the lug and jam it in there. Do that enough and eventually you’re going to create a problem. No need to use Nicorette or the patch any longer because after a few hours, you’ll stop smoking.
Much easier to install the breaker.
They don’t call em “sparkies” for nothing.
I take it right back to the code… The code says all equipment Must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Most of the surge protector equipment has very specific requirements for where to connect the wires to any surge protector. I have never seen one installation instruction specify to install a surge protector directly to the main service entrance conductors. Get for the instructions say that that is the proper method of connection comma then the installation is code compliant… If the instructions do not specify that installation method and specifically tell you how to connect it in a different way, then the condition is a code violation and must be repaired for compliance with code.
Code Violations are a misdemeanor crime in most jurisdictions.
To the gentleman who was told by the insurance company representative that he was out of line calling out the issue., He should send that insurance agent a copy of the manufacturers’ installation instructions for the surge protection device and point out that because the device was not installed properly, it is a code violation, and there is very likely a warning on the instruction manual that says there is an high risk of fire or electrocution if this device is not installed properly… Maybe that will help the insurance representative realize he made a mistake in your situation, and instead of taking you off his approved list, Making you his number one preference on the approved list.
Robert V Knowles, PE
President, Knowles Inspection Services LLC
President, National Association of Homeowners
Join NAHO today
naho.us.com
Why in the heck would a buildier become an insurance agent? Lazy or was a bad builder!!! Stay clear of that guy. if he spreads rumors about you get a lawyer and retire.
Hi Robert. Welcome to the forum. I was not aware of that rule about code violations. I find multiple code violations on every new construction home I inspect. (and every used home, of course) See the recent thread about hills to die on, the common code violations that are so common we wonder if we should bother even calling them out.
Do you have a source for this law about code violations being a misdemeanor? That sure does spice up the conversation with the builder 
Hills you no longer die on? - Members-Only / Misc. Members-Only - InterNACHI®️ Forum
And sellers!
