What to Expect During an Electrical Service Inspection

An electrical service inspection ensures your home or building’s electrical system is safe, compliant with code, and capable of handling its electrical load. Whether you’re buying a home, renovating, or updating old wiring, understanding the inspection process can help you feel prepared and avoid surprises.

1. Initial Walkthrough and Safety Check

The inspector will begin with an overall assessment of the property’s electrical safety. This may include:

  • Ensuring the main electrical panel is accessible.

  • Checking for exposed wires or obvious hazards.

  • Confirming that power can be safely turned off if needed.

Expect the inspector to ask about recent electrical work or problem areas you’ve noticed.

2. Examination of the Main Electrical Panel

The main service panel is one of the most critical areas inspected. The inspector will look for:

  • Proper panel labeling.

  • Secure connections and absence of corrosion or burn marks.

  • Correct breaker sizes and a properly rated main disconnect.

  • Adequate grounding and bonding.

  • Signs of amateur or outdated work.

If the panel is outdated (e.g., Federal Pacific, Zinsco, fuse boxes), they may recommend replacement.


3. Grounding and Bonding Verification

Safe grounding protects you from electrical shock and equipment damage. The inspector will verify:

  • Presence and integrity of grounding electrodes (ground rods, UFER, etc.).

  • Correct bonding of metal plumbing, gas lines, and structural steel.

  • Proper grounding conductor sizes and connections.

4. Inspection of Wiring Throughout the Home

The inspector may visually check accessible wiring in:

  • Basements and attics

  • Crawlspaces

  • Utility rooms

  • Around appliances and lighting fixtures

They look for issues such as:

  • Damaged or loose wiring

  • Improper splices (e.g., not in a junction box)

  • Extension cords used as permanent wiring

  • Old or unsafe wiring types (knob-and-tube, aluminum, cloth-insulated)

5. Testing Outlets, Switches, and Devices

Using testers and meters, the inspector checks:

  • Correct outlet wiring (hot/neutral/ground orientation)

  • Functioning GFCI and AFCI protection

  • Properly installed light fixtures and switches

  • Adequate number and placement of receptacles (per code)

In kitchens, bathrooms, garages, unfinished basements, and exterior areas, GFCI outlets are required.

6. Load Capacity and Service Size Review

To ensure the electrical system can meet current and future needs, the inspector evaluates:

  • Service size (e.g., 100A, 150A, 200A)

  • Number and type of major appliances

  • Heating/cooling electrical demands

  • Potential overload risks

If the system is undersized, they may recommend upgrading.

7. Review of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

The inspector checks for:

  • Proper smoke and CO detector placement

  • Working condition and interconnected functionality

  • Compliance with local code updates

8. Final Report and Recommendations

At the end of the inspection, you’ll receive a summary or detailed report outlining:

  • Code violations or safety issues

  • Repairs required for compliance

  • Suggested upgrades for efficiency or safety

  • Any immediate hazards that should be addressed right away

This report helps you plan repairs or negotiate costs in a real-estate transaction.

How to Prepare for an Electrical Inspection

To make the process smoother:

  • Clear access to the electrical panel.

  • Unlock attics, basements, and electrical rooms.

  • Remove obstacles from outlets and fixtures.

  • Provide permits and records of past electrical work.

When to Schedule an Electrical Service Inspection

You should consider one if:

  • You’re buying or selling a property.

  • Your home is over 30 years old.

  • You’re installing major appliances or EV chargers.

  • You’ve had flickering lights, tripping breakers, or power issues.

  • You’re planning renovations requiring permits.