When an inspector inspects a home one of the key features that they look at is the electrical system. The home’s electrical system is essential as it provides the power needs of the household. The electrical system must be reliable as well as safe. If the electrical system has flaws or is not up to current code, it is not only unreliable, it is also hazardous. Lifeline Inspection Services will share some electrical red flags we have found during home inspections and what they mean for the home. There are many reasons why a home electrical system will fail an inspection. All home inspectors follow the NEC electrical safety standards. If the home electrical system doesn’t follow the NEC code, the home will fail the inspection. When inspecting a home there are some more common electrical problems that are discovered that don’t meet NEC codes.
Old House Electrical Wiring
Some older homes will still have old electrical systems which no longer meet current codes and regulations. Older electrical systems are often inadequate for modern power needs and is a major fire risk. During a home inspection, some older homes are found with knob and tube electrical designs. which are consider a hazard. This system is a very old electrical system. Homes built in the 60’s and 70’s often used aluminum wiring. Aluminum wiring does not work well in many states that have a lot of moisture such as Georgia has. Aluminum wiring rusts and breaks down when they are exposed to too much moisture. Aluminum wiring will also overheat more easily than copper wiring. Another sign of an older electrical system is one without GFCI outlets in the bathrooms, or near plumbing features such as sinks and faucets. GFCI outlets are essential to electrical safety especially near water features. Old homes often will not have GFCI outlets and will cause a failed electrical inspection. Another similar problem in older home is two pronged outlets. Modern electrical systems will require three pronged outlets which has a ground wiring system. This is an additional safety measure in the home’s electrical system.
Improper Electrical Fixture Installation
Another major red flag for home inspectors is improper installation. Sometimes the home’s electrical system was installed by a friend or a non-professional. Often during home inspections some flaws are discovered that reveal a wiring system wasn’t installed correctly and will therefore require deeper inspection. A home inspector will look for basic electrical systems. At times, a deeper inspection is needed if the home inspector finds improper installation.
Electrical Property Damage
During a home inspection often an inspector will find electrical damage and most common in the wiring. Wiring can become damaged due to pest activity, from nails and screws that went through a wall and hit the wiring. Damaged wiring is a major electrical hazard and can cause a fire. If electrical wiring is discovered damaged, it will result in a fail on the inspection report.
Residential Home & Commercial Property Inspections & More in Fulton, Spalding, Coweta, Douglas, Pike, Upson & Fayette County, Georgia
The home electrical system is essential. During a home inspection much time is dedicated in inspecting the electrical system. If you are buying or selling a home and want to know the state of the electrical system and more, contact Lifeline Inspection Services.
