When Is an Electrical Inspection Necessary and What Does It Entail?

Even if you’re accustomed to your home’s hallway light flickering everytime you turn on the dishwasher, it may indicate an issue with the electrical system. Even though electrical inspections are necessary when buying or selling a house, most homeowners don’t get them done frequently. Nonetheless, keeping up with electrical inspections may ensure that your house is in good working order and that your electric lines are secure, protecting you from fires and providing piece of mind.

What Is Included in an Electrical Inspection?

A thorough examination of every electrical component in your house is what an electrical inspection entails. A qualified local electrical inspector does the inspection, after which they offer you a report on the condition of your electrical components.

Typically, an electrical inspection involves the following tasks for your inspector:

Wiring

Outlets

Switches

Systems

Appliances

If there are any issues that need to be fixed or monitored, your inspector will advise you on updates and repairs in addition to letting you know if everything is safe and compliant.

How Frequently Is an Electrical Inspection Necessary?

Every three to five years, engage a professional electrician to conduct an inspection to ensure that your home is still up to code and that all electrical components are functioning properly. Get one more often, roughly every two to three years, if your house is 25 years old or older.

Inspections for Safety

An electrician will verify that the wiring in your house is secure and free of fraying or other issues during a routine safety check. Electrical parts like wire are susceptible to deterioration over time due to several factors like moisture, heat, and humidity.

Regular safety checks are essential, especially in older houses, as you run the danger of an electrical fire anytime there is a problem with your wiring or electrical components. Furthermore, your house insurance company may see your lack of frequent inspections as negligent and cancel your coverage if something goes wrong.

Inspections of New Installations

When electrical components are installed or repaired, electricians do new installation checks. Almost all electrical work done in your house has to be approved by a building permit holder, and after that, an inspection by a certified and approved electrician is required.

An electrician will confirm during these inspections that the wiring and electrical component installations adhere to the National Electrical Code® and that the parts were installed for the intended purpose.

Every three years, the National Electrical Code® is updated and changed; but, owing to legislative delays, many towns may be one edition behind. To find out whether version of the code your electrical work complies with, speak with your municipality or an electrician.

What Is the Price of an Electrical Inspection?

A thorough electrical examination for a house typically costs $350, while bigger residences may pay more. Additionally, the sort of electrical examination you receive affects the cost. Typically, standard electrical inspections cost between $100 and $200 and involve inspecting outlets, circuit breakers, and wiring.

All new feature installations may come with a code compliance examination included in the price. Additional fees for certain services, such as thorough infrared inspections, might average $250.