Basic home electrical inspection

The basic home electrical system inspection is extremely important because many house fires are caused from wiring that is damaged, improperly installed, loose connections and incorrect wire gauges( wire sizes). Some of the things a home inspector will observe include main service feeder cables either overhead or underground. Overhead service connections should be checked for correct connection to the weather head, clearance from roof surface. Observe service drop drip loop for correct position. Look for any loose connections at the mast and cable support connections to the mast. With underground feeder service observe conduit for any damage or separation at connection joints. At the main disconnect on the home or the main service panel, determine the total voltage coming into the main panel . Most homes today have two 120 volt service feeders and one neutral cable from the transformer to the house. The minimum required is 100 volts. Observe the inside of electrical panels ( required in Oklahoma is (removal of dead front cover of electrical panels, if safe to do)to check for loose connections at circuit breakers and any evidence of arcing and overheating. Make sure wire sizes are correctly matched with the circuit breaker connections . For example , it’s incorrect wiring for a 14ga. Wire to be connected to a 30 amp circuit breaker because this can cause over heating and can lead to a fire. Other parts of the basic electrical inspection include; Using a receptacle tester, check all outlets for correct function and wiring. Check for proper grounding electrodes at main disconnect and grounded main service panels. Observe type of wiring and conduit and bonding of electrical system throughout the house and check for proper securing of conduit and non metallic sheathing(romex).

As a home inspector this is a limited visual inspection and any observed defects should be reported to the client and included in your formal home inspection report, including photos and locations. Recommend a licensed electrician for further observation and/ or corrective action.