Approximately 1,000 deaths occur every year due to improper maintenance of electrical systems. Even the non-fatal shock incidents are up to 30,000. An electrical inspection is necessary to help you avoid such malfunctions.
If you skip the inspection, consequences may not be immediate or apparent, but the potential risks will be significant. So, it is critical to do an electrical inspection when you are buying a new house.
Electrical Inspection Facts
- Electrical inspection can reduce monthly costs by detecting inefficiencies like overloaded circuits or improperly insulated wiring.
- While checking for faulty wiring or overloading, inspectors sometimes stumble upon old wiring methods or bigger faults in the system.
- The NEC is the manual for your home’s electrical system and the entire US. It’s constantly evolving to address new technologies and potential hazards.
What Is an Electrical Inspection?
An electrical inspection helps to evaluate a property’s electrical system. During an inspection, a home inspector generally looks for wiring, GCFI outlets, main panel, earthing, etc.
These inspections are crucial as they maintain the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system. Whether you are moving into a new home or residing in an older one, periodic inspections are essential.
If you notice unexplained increases in your electricity bills, it’s advisable to have a professional examine your electrical systems for potential inefficiencies.
Why Are Electrical Inspections Important?
Electrical inspections are crucial for several reasons:
- Safety: Inspections ensure that the electrical systems are away from the risk of electrical fires and shocks.
- Compliance: Inspections ensure the property complies with safety regulations, enhancing its value.
- Renovation Planning: When planning renovations, inspections identify if the existing infrastructure can handle changes.
- Appliance Issues: Inspections help pinpoint issues with HVAC and other appliances.
- Aging Systems: Inspectors help to identify and bring up the old electrical systems to the current safety standards.
- New Appliance Addition: Inspections ensure that the electrical system can handle the additional load without safety concerns.
What Does a Home Inspector Look for During an Electrical Inspection?
- Service Panel: The inspector checks the electrical service panel to ensure good condition.
- Circuit Breaker (CB): The inspector looks for CBs and fuses to ensure the tripping smoothly.
- Grounding: The inspector will analyze whether the grounding electrodes and conductors are under local building codes.
- Wiring: He will check for any cracks or disconnections between junctions.
Types of Electrical Inspections
Below are the three types of electrical inspections. You can schedule them at every stage of your home’s electrical system.
1. Installation Inspection: You can schedule this inspection when all the new circuits are connected. The electric inspector will check whether the hidden components are installed correctly.
2. Service and Feeder Inspection: An inspector will check the feeder’s working condition and ensure the flow of electricity. So, this type of inspection is done to ensure the reliability of the power supply.
3. Final Inspection: This is done to ensure the building has a stable electrical system. You can schedule this after all the equipment and appliances are installed, energized, and grounded.
When Do You Require an Electrical Inspection?
You require an electric inspection when you do the following:
- Buying or Selling a Home
- Upgrade Your Home
- Discover Problems With Electrical Appliances
- Have Old Equipment and System
- Buy a New Appliance
How to Hire an Electrical Inspector?
A buyer or buyer agent usually hires an electrical inspector. Here are the steps you must follow:
- Identify the Type of Inspection You Need: There are basic three types of electrical inspections. However, you should choose an appropriate type according to your property’s condition.
- Look for a Home Inspector: Check online directories, government websites, and IAEI to find the home inspector. So you should ensure they hold a Certified Electrical Inspector license.
- Get a Quote: Consult with credible inspectors and compare their rates to choose one within your budget.
How Much Does an Electrical Inspection Cost?
Electrical inspection costs $100 to $200. It can go up to $500 as well. The size of the home, its age, and the complexity of the electrical system can also affect the cost.
Additionally, checking a new appliance or addressing identified issues, may incur extra charges. Hence, it’s advisable to obtain quotes from qualified electricians to determine the exact cost.
Bottom Line
An electrical inspector checks the smooth functioning of the property’s electrical system. Ensuring electrical safety is crucial due to numerous fatal consequences.
Homeowners should conduct inspections at least once a year and can make changes according to the inspection report to guarantee safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do electrical inspectors need insurance?
Yes, electrical inspectors should need Errors and Omissions insurance, as it helps the inspectors cover costs during electrical accidents.
What electrical tests must be carried out?
A home or property needs four types of electrical tests, which are
1. Insulation resistance test
2. Polarity test of the switch
3. Earth continuity test
4. Earth electrode resistance test
What is the standard electrical safety test?
The HVAC inspection is often referred to as the standard safety test. It is done to ensure whether the products or electrical systems can withstand the high voltage.
