It’s a good idea that you know how to pass an electrical safety inspection. An electrical safety inspection may be required if you’re trying to make an electrical change or find the cause of an electric problem. Electrical inspections are useful for determining the scope of work that is required. The inspection will confirm that all work was completed safely so that future problems are not possible. No matter what the problem may be, you can be sure that your electrical safety inspection will be passed.
What is an Electrical Inspection?
These are just a few situations where an electrical inspection might be required:
- Permanent electrical problems
- You are planning a major renovation.
- Reconfiguring appliances or lighting
- Before you buy a new house
- Be sure to list your home before you sell it.
- If your outlet is not working or the switch is not responding,
- Your home will reach 40 years old if it is in good condition.
- If your homeowner’s policy provider requires you to do so
- If you’re adding a major appliance to your home
Talk to your contractor if you have any questions about electrical work. To make sure that the work is done safely, he or she might be able to perform a smaller inspection.
What to Expect During an Electrical Safety Inspection
After you’ve determined that an electrical safety inspection is required, contact your electrician. In the next few weeks, he or she will be able to schedule an inspection. Let the contractor know if you have an emergency situation so that he can arrive sooner.
The inspector will then set a time and date for their arrival. The inspection may take between 30 minutes and two hours depending on how large and extensive the problem is.
The inspector will use a checklist during inspection to make sure that safety codes are being followed. They will look for the following common items:
- Minor safety and fire hazards can be corrected
- Observe visible issues such as ungrounded outlets
- Test switches, circuits and panels
Although the contractor might remove some outlets covers or expose small amounts of wiring, all will be replaced before they leave.
After the inspection is completed, the inspector will give you a written report. The report will include a summary of the inspection and possibly recommendations for improving energy efficiency. An electrical inspection is done by either a city official or an electrician. Official inspections can be used to inform insurance companies and real estate agents that all work has been completed safely. It will inform homeowners about any future electrical repairs that may be required in an informal setting.
How to pass an electrical safety inspection
It is essential to understand what the process of electrical inspections is and when they are required.
To pass the electrical safety inspection, make sure you check your wiring
If you want to pass an electrical safety inspection, one of the most important things you need to make sure is that your wires work properly. Faulty wiring can cause a fire, and it should be replaced. Replace all wires that are old with newer ones to ensure safety. You will have a safer, more functional electrical system.
Make sure you have plenty of outlets in your kitchen
There are many appliances in your kitchen, so it’s not uncommon for multiple appliances to be operating simultaneously. It’s a good idea for the kitchen to have multiple outlets. An electrician will warn you to not plug multiple appliances into the same socket at once. This could overload your electrical system and cause permanent damage. Make sure that there are enough outlets in your kitchen to pass an electrical safety inspection.
Place switches and lighting fixtures correctly
You will see light switches placed near doors when you enter a house. Because people require light to enter a room, this is done. This is because it helps you pass electrical safety inspections.
Inspectors will also inspect the lighting fixtures in your hallways and staircases. These lights should not cast shadows which could lead to accidents.
You must ensure that your bathroom is properly lit
The bathroom is another area of your home that should be thoroughly inspected. For added safety, all electrical sockets and fixtures in this area must be kept away from water. Your bathroom lights should have a waterproof lens that is resistant to moisture.
Other technical issues
An inspection may also include other technical issues. These issues can be difficult to identify and bring up to code. However, it is important to be aware of these issues and to do your best to ensure your equipment is safe during an inspection.
- Breakers that are missing or broken in the electrical switchboards
- Water intrusion
- Corrosion
- Ill-fitting connections
- Color code wires
- Cuts, cracking insulation and signs that there is arching can all be wire defects
- Grounding system
- Clearance Sale
- Get electrical readings
These are some general tips to help you pass an electrical safety inspection. Many people find electrical inspections stressful because they don’t want the risk of having to do additional work. Knowing what will be covered in an electrical inspection can help you to be more prepared. Let’s hope your electrical inspection goes smoothly and your home is protected from any potential dangers.