Electrical Safety: Key Areas Covered in an Inspection

Electrical Safety: Key Areas Covered in an Inspection
By City Home Inspectors

⚡ Electricity powers your home—but when something’s wrong behind the walls, it can also pose serious risks.

At City Home Inspectors, electrical safety is a top priority during every inspection. We evaluate the condition, function, and safety of the entire system—so you can live with confidence, not concern.

💬 The Emotional Side: Hidden Dangers

An outdated electrical system doesn’t just mean inconvenience. It can lead to:

• 🔥 Fire hazards from overheating or faulty wiring

• 💡 Flickering lights, damaged appliances, or tripped breakers

• ⚠️ Shock risks in bathrooms, kitchens, and garages

• 🧾 Insurance issues or failed financing due to system deficiencies

🧠 The Logical Breakdown: What We Inspect

1. Main Electrical Panel & Subpanels
We check for:

• Proper grounding and bonding

• Correct amperage and breaker labeling

• Signs of corrosion, overheating, or amateur wiring jobs

2. Visible Wiring Types
We identify potentially hazardous wiring, including:

• Aluminum wiring (common in 1960s–70s homes, prone to overheating)

• Knob-and-tube wiring (pre-1950s, ungrounded and obsolete)

• Improper splices or open junction boxes

3. Outlets & Switches
We test for:

• Loose, hot, or unresponsive outlets

• Reverse polarity or ungrounded receptacles

• Safety issues near water sources (kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas)

4. GFCI Protection
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are required in wet areas. We verify their presence and test their function to prevent electrical shock.

🚩 Common Red Flags We See

• Double-tapped breakers

• Overloaded circuits or undersized panels

• Extension cords used as permanent wiring

• Missing cover plates or open panels

✅ Why It Matters

Electrical issues aren’t just a buyer concern—they’re a life safety concern. A clear, detailed inspection helps you:

• Prevent fire and shock hazards

• Pass lender and insurance requirements

• Budget for upgrades or professional repairs

🎯 Stay safe. Stay compliant. Get clarity on what’s happening behind your walls.

📅 Book your home inspection today at www.cityhomeinspectors.com