How To Ensure Your Home Passes an Electrical Inspection

Do you have an upcoming home electrical inspection, and the thought is making you a bit nervous? Rest easy; we’re here to help. Today, we will delve into what inspectors are looking for, the most common problems they find, and, most importantly, provide practical tips to help you pass your next inspection.

What Inspectors Are Looking For

An electrical inspection typically consists of two phases: the Rough-In Inspection and the Final Inspection.

During the Rough-In Inspection, an inspector examines the electrical wiring, circuitry, and panel before the walls are closed. They’re looking for:

• Proper Circuits: Each room should have the appropriate number of circuits. High-energy appliances like ovens or dryers should be on dedicated circuits.
• GFCI and AFCI Circuit Protection: Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) should be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor outlets, among other places. Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) should be in bedrooms and living rooms.
• Properly Sized and Mounted Electrical Boxes: Boxes should be secure and large enough to accommodate the wires they contain.
• Consistent Outlet and Switch Heights: They should be installed at standard heights to ensure accessibility.
• Correctly Clamped Cables and Cable Anchoring: Wires should be securely fastened and protected from damage.
• Wire Labeling and Appropriate Wire Gauge: All wires should be correctly labeled, and their gauge should be suitable for their intended load.

During the Final Inspection, an inspector checks the electrical system’s overall safety, ensuring the system operates as it should and that all covers, plates, and fixtures are installed correctly.

Common Problems Found During Electrical Inspections

Inspectors often encounter issues such as:

• Ungrounded Receptacles: All outlets must be grounded to prevent electric shocks.
• Double-Tapped Circuit Breakers: Each circuit breaker should serve one circuit to prevent overloading.
• Exposed Light Bulbs in Closets: Bulbs should have protective covers to prevent fires.
• Non-Compliant Outdoor Receptacle Covers: Outdoor outlets should have weatherproof covers.
• Insufficient Number of Outlets: Rooms should have enough outlets to eliminate the need for extension cords.
• Non-Tamper-Resistant Receptacles: All outlets, especially those accessible to children, should be tamper-resistant.
• Unfilled Openings in Electrical Panels: All openings in the panel should be sealed to prevent accidental contact with live components.
• Malfunctioning GFCI Outlets: These must be replaced immediately to maintain safety.

Tips To Pass a Home Electrical Inspection

Here are some practical steps to help you prepare:

• Check Your Electrical Panel: Look for signs of damage, decay, or loose wires.
• Appliance Circuits: Ensure major appliances like your refrigerator, dishwasher, and stove have their own circuits.
• Test Alarms: Ensure your fire and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning correctly.
• Clear Paths: Clear any obstructions to the electrical panel and attic for easy access.
• Code Compliance: Ensure each room meets code requirements. For instance, bathrooms and kitchens need GFCI outlets, and all rooms should have enough outlets to reduce the need for extension cords.

Get Ready for Your Electrical Inspection With Jaffe Electric Company

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well-prepared for your home electrical inspection. Remember, the goal is not just to “pass” an inspection but to ensure your home is a safe place for you and your family.

If you have any doubts or concerns about your home’s electrical safety, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Jaffe Electric. With our comprehensive electrical repair, installations, and inspections, we’ll ensure the safety and functionality of your home.

Is your home ready for an electrical inspection? If you need help or have questions about your electrical system, call 301.253.3778 to get in touch with our expert electricians today!