Electrical.
Electrical problems are among the most safety-critical things we find — and often the least visible. Here’s what we check, the red flags we look for, and what you can safely keep an eye on yourself.
What we check during an inspection
We evaluate the accessible, visible electrical system for safety and function — never opening live components beyond removing the panel cover.
✓ Main panel & breakers
We check capacity, breaker condition and labeling, and look for double-tapped breakers or signs of overheating.
✓ Service & grounding
We review the visible service entrance and confirm the system appears properly grounded and bonded.
✓ Outlets & GFCI/AFCI
We test a representative sample of outlets and check for GFCI/AFCI protection where it’s required — kitchens, baths, garages, and exterior.
✓ Switches & fixtures
We operate switches and fixtures, noting anything loose, warm, or non-functional.
✓ Visible wiring
Where accessible (panel, attic, basement), we note wiring type and condition, including older aluminum or knob-and-tube.
✓ Smoke & CO detectors
We note the presence and placement of smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms.
Common problems we find
✓ Double-tapped breakers
Two wires under one breaker lug that isn’t rated for it — a frequent and easily corrected hazard.
✓ Missing GFCI/AFCI
No ground-fault protection near water or required areas, a common shock risk in older homes.
✓ Aluminum branch wiring
Common in mid-1960s–70s homes; it needs special connectors and handling to be safe.
✓ Open or exposed splices
Junctions without covers or wiring spliced outside a box — a fire risk.
✓ Reversed polarity / ungrounded outlets
Wiring mistakes that defeat the safety of the outlet.
✓ Unpermitted DIY work
The classic “handyman” panel or addition — often the source of multiple issues at once.
What you can do safely
Electrical work itself should be left to a professional — but there’s plenty you can monitor.
✓ Test GFCIs monthly
Press “test,” confirm power cuts, then “reset.” Replace any that don’t trip.
✓ Test alarms monthly
Smoke and CO alarms save lives — test monthly and replace any unit over 10 years old.
✓ Don’t overload circuits
Avoid daisy-chained power strips, retire frayed cords, and unplug high-draw devices when not in use.
✓ Watch for warning signs
Warm outlets, buzzing, flickering lights, or breakers that trip often all warrant a call.
✓ Keep the panel accessible
Know where it is, keep it labeled and clear, and never block it.
✓ Leave panel work to a pro
Opening or modifying the panel is dangerous — always use a licensed electrician.
This guide is for general education. It reflects what we look for during a home inspection, not a substitute for a licensed professional. If you have a specific concern, please contact a licensed electrician — and of course, we’re always happy to take a look during an inspection.
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We’ll give your home a thorough, plain-English inspection and flag anything worth a closer look.