In 2018 the Governor signed SB-988, known as the “Proper Bonding and Grounding of Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing Act.”
What is Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing?
Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing, better known as CSST, is a flexible stainless steel tubing used to supply natural gas or propane in a home. It is an alternative to rigid steel or iron pipes generally used to carry natural gas through a home. Builders and contractors like CSST because as it is flexible, it is much easier to install than rigid pipe. In addition, because elbows and other connectors are not needed to go around corners, CSST is less prone to leaks than rigid pipe, making it safer. It has been used in homes in the US since 1990. It is a very popular product when homes are remodeled and homeowners want to relocate the furnace or other gas appliance to a different part of a house.
CSST should NOT be confused with flexible gas appliance connectors that are commonly used to connect gas appliances to the gas valve at a wall. Flexible gas appliance connectors are NOT part of this law.
What is the concern?
The concern with CSST is if it comes in contact with electricity, the pipe can become energized. This can shock anyone who comes in contact with the CSST or gas appliances that are connected to CSST. In some cases, such as a lightning strike, the CSST can become damaged and start a fire.
However, CSST that is properly bonded and grounded is considered to be generally safe even when struck by lightning.
What is the bonding and grounding of CSST?
Bonding is the process of connecting items that carry an electrical charge, such as metal, to each other so there is electrical continuity and conductivity between each item. This means all conductors are at the same potential, and the positive and negative ions are balanced. Grounding extends this connection to a ground connection.
What does the law say?
SB-998, known as the “Proper Bonding and Grounding of Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing Act” simply states if a home inspector notices CSST in a home, the inspector shall note the presence of the CSST in the home inspection report and put this comment in the report:
“Manufacturers of yellow corrugated stainless steel tubing believe that yellow corrugated stainless steel tubing is safer if properly bonded and grounded as required by the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Proper bonding and grounding of this product can only be determined by a licensed electrical contractor.”
What changes?
Honestly, not much. At IM Home Inspections, any time CSST has been noted, a similar comment has been added to the inspection report. So from the home inspector aspect, this new law does not make any real impact.
However, several times I have had sellers or listing agents tell me they have never heard of this requirement before. Now I can point to the law as my source of “why” rather than just manufacturer recommendations.
To book your home inspection now, call 818-298-3405