All Forum Posts by: Oscar Beteta

Hi everyone and Philly plumbing code knowledgeable people!

I have an issue where I would like to install new laundry hook-ups in a downstairs apartment and have no easy access to connect to my main vent that goes up to my roof. I've been researching and I see there are products out there called "mechanical vents" or "air admittance vents" that install close to the drain and act as check valves, allows air to be sucked in but not allowing the drain gases to come out.

My question is, are these allowed to be used in Philaldelphia per the plumbing code?

I'm also going to check with some local plumbers so I'll provide more info when I receive it.

-Oscar

I wonder if there may be a special requirement in Philly?

That is very helpful. Thank you Troy!

Hi Pat! What type of property did this apply to? Were you doing any rehab work on it that triggered the requirement for the sprinkler system?

Hi everyone!

I just purchased a four unit property in the Mt. Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia. The house is currently laid out as a quad (with all separate utilities) and the previous owner had obtained a variance approval just before closing. We are in the process now of waiting to receive the certificate of occupancy for use as a quad.

My question is related to the requirement for a sprinkler system. In Philadelphia, when is a sprinkler system required to be installed in old properties with 4 units or less?

Thanks!

Hi Douglas!  I live in Blue Bell and am starting my investing journey with a quad in Mt. Airy.

I'm interested in buying more buy and hold properties.  Would love to have lunch one day to learn about the Norristown market.

Hi @Account Closed!  Thanks for the thoughtful response!  i understand what you are saying and it may be the route I take with this project.  I enjoy learning new skills and figuring out how things work so I may get very involved with the rewiring while at the same time leaving it to the experts to do what they do best.

Luckily in my case, the electric panels have already been upgraded.  This is a quad so all four units now have 100A service with circuit breakers.  Two of the four units have already been upgraded to new electrical.  Two units still have knob and tube.

I was also thinking of running wires on top of drywall and to have them covered with wire trim.  Is this something you have already done in the past?  I imagine that this can also save some money associated with have to punch holes in drywall to fish wires around.

Thanks!

Hello BP!

I'm very excited to share that I should be closing on a quad located in West Mount Airy close to Germantown in early May.  The major project to be done will be to replace knob and tube wiring in two of the four apartment units (the 2nd floor and 3rd floor of the building).

I'm looking to connect with other local investors or contractors who have had experience working with knob and tube in the past in the Philadelphia area.  Would love to hear about your experiences and advice/tips on how to keep costs in check while doing this rewiring work.  

Thanks in advance for your feedback!

@Richard Jahnle Thanks for sharing that info Rich!

Thanks @Mike McCarthy!!!