The electrical inspection is generally the most important element of our Dallas, McKinney and Frisco home inspection work. Because of the potential safety hazards posed by substandard wiring, service panels, outlets and appliances, we devote extra care in evaluating these systems. Here are some major things we look for in home electrical inspections.
— Mike Martin, Advanced Inspection Service (AIS)
ASHI- and TREC-certified Real Estate Inspector
Service Panel – Evaluate operation of all breakers. Labels should match circuits. Check for nicked wires or smell of burning/overheating. Amperage of the breakers (or fuses) must match that of the wiring and the fixtures or appliances on each circuit. Oversized breakers (e.g., 20 amp on a 14 amp wire) create a potential hazard.
Exposed Wiring – We can’t examine electrical wires inside walls, ceilings or floors in a completed house. But our Frisco home inspectors do look at exposed wiring to check for proper grounding, rodent or insect damage, or evidence of overheating.
Electrical Outlets and GFCIs/AFCIs – Outlets in kitchens, baths or outdoors must have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt (GFCIs) and circuits in bedrooms must have Arc Fault Circuit Interrupts (AFCIs). Receptacles should not have 3-way plugs or plug strips with loads that exceed capacity of the circuit. Overloaded outlets are also a turn-off for buyers.
Lighting Fixtures – These generate heat, and must have separation from flammable surfaces (varies by local building code). Especially common with recessed light cans covered by insulation – increasing heat levels. Also plug-in lamps or other electrical appliances with frayed cords.
Appliances – We inspect many houses that were built before people needed lots of electrical devices and conveniences. Older homes may not have enough amperage, circuits or outlets to support these. This is most commonly an issue in bathrooms, kitchens or garages.
From a safety standpoint, a properly functioning electrical system is the most important requirement of a dwelling. If your client is buying or selling a home in Frisco, McKinney or Northwest Dallas, call us today to schedule a prompt and thorough home inspection.
Advanced Inspection Service (972) 342-9183
Home Inspections – Frisco, Dallas and McKinney TX