Non UL Certified Appliances

Hi Gang, You all need to be aware of the non UL certified appliances that are being purchased over the Internet. Our client purchased a very cool space ship like steam shower / whirlpool with TV & Internet which we agreed to install (the last time). Upon final electrical inspection the inspector turned us down because it must be UL certified. This unit did carry the CE certification but that isn't accepted by the NEC or the NC Insurance Commission. Our and our clients only recourse is to get it certified by a special engineering firm to the tune of $925 if it passes on the first go or rip it out (not going to happen). Fortunately the firm is in Morrisville and there is only a $25 travel charge. Of course the distributor is accepting no responsibly and says he sells them all over NC and the country with no problem. (Probably being installed in non permitted projects.)