Preventing Electrical Theft in a Multi-Family Residence: What You Can Do

Living in a multi-family residence can come with its own set of challenges, especially concerning shared resources such as electricity. One common issue is electrical theft, where neighbors illegally wire into your power supply, leading to higher electricity bills and potential safety hazards. If you suspect this is happening in your apartment building, here are some steps you can take to address the issue and protect your home.

Identifying the Issue

If one of your neighbors in your apartment building had their electric cut off and meter removed, and then somehow managed to run a cord or wire to your electric supply, it's crucial to determine the source of this unauthorized access.

First, how do you know? Electrical theft in a multi-family setting can happen in several ways. One common method is improperly connected breaker boxes, where a circuit gets wired to the wrong box. For example, a 240V, 2-pole breaker might be connected to an empty space on your side of the breaker box but actually belongs to your neighbor's range. Another method involves drilling holes through walls to tap into your sockets.

What Should You Do?

Once you suspect electrical theft, here are the steps to take:

Document the Issue: Turn off the circuit and document the response on your smartphone. This can serve as evidence if legal action is necessary. Disconnect the Spur: Safely disconnect the illegally connected wires. If you're not confident in your ability to do this safely, hire a qualified electrician. Sue for Legal Action: If the issue persists, you may need to take legal action. Include the costs for making the electrical system up to code again, as the unauthorized tapping creates an electrical hazard.

It's important to understand that tapping into your interior sockets, splicing a line into your service lines, or wiring into your breaker box can be serious and should be handled appropriately by a professional.

Preventive Measures

To prevent electrical theft, consider the following:

Control Access to Outdoor Outlets: Lock up your exterior outlets to prevent unauthorized access. An example lockbox can be installed. Ensure the job is done by a qualified electrician for safety reasons. Lock Up Your Sockets: Use child-proof outlet covers and acrylic nail polish (clear or fluorescent orange) in an effort to make tapping into the electrical system more difficult. Test it first with acetone to prevent any permanent sticking.

By taking these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of electrical theft in your apartment building.

Remember, if you suspect electrical theft and aren't sure how the issue is being addressed, it's best to consult a professional. Electrical safety should be a priority, and taking the appropriate steps can save you from potential fines, legal issues, and safety hazards.