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06 Dec, 2017
Posted by D C Electric
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What to Think About When Getting an Electrical Home Inspection

An electrical home inspection is one of the most important things homeowners can do to ensure the safety of anyone who steps foot inside their home. Not only do electrical safety inspections provide peace of mind, but can save thousands of dollars in electrical nightmares.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire departments in the U.S. responded to an estimated annual average of 47,820 reported home structure fires involving electrical failure or malfunction in 2007-2011—resulting in 455 civilian deaths, 1,518 civilian injuries and $1.5 billion in direct property damage. In addition, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) explains,

During 2010–2012, an estimated annual average of 9,600 fires was attributable to electrical distribution equipment (e.g., installed wiring, lighting). This is 2.7 percent of the estimated annual average number of residential fires for this period. The annual average death estimate is 130 (6.0 percent of average annual estimated residential fire deaths); the injury estimates averaged 470, which is 3.7 percent of the estimated annual average of residential fire injuries.

The good news is that you can prevent your home from falling victim to an electrical failure or malfunction by addressing safety hazards with an electrical home inspection.

What is an electrical home inspection?

During an electrical home inspection, a certified home inspector will thoroughly examine the status of your entire electrical system to reveal any electrical component deficiencies and ensure all electrical systems, components, and wires meet legal and safety standards. When examining your home, the inspector should operate under The National Electrical Code (NEC), an adoptable standard for the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment in the United States. Upon completion of your electrical home inspection, they will provide you with a prioritized, detailed, checklist highlighting areas in need of immediate attention, potential upgrades, and recommendations for improvements.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) recommends you conduct an electrical home inspection if:

  • Your home is 40 years old or older
  • You purchase a pre-owned home
  • Your home has undergone any major renovations
  • You’ve added major new appliances in the last 10 years

How do I check if my home is safe from electrical hazards?

An electrical home inspection is important for the safety of your home and offers peace of mind in everything from safe operation of electrical components and electrocution prevention to recognizing outdated wiring and reducing energy costs. ESFI offers a number of resources that offer questions and tips to help you and your Raleigh electrical home inspector to identify any potential hazards, including information on electrical switches and outlets, electrical cords, lamps and appliances, and electrical panels.

We recommend that you hire a certified home inspector to provide you with a detailed, prioritized report on all areas of attention concerning your home electrical system. Don’t wait, ensure the safety of your family and friends. Once you’ve received your report, we can help with any necessary repairs.