Electrical Defects Found During Home Inspections

Electrical defects are among the most common problems found during home inspections. Problems can range from improperly installed wiring and damaged electrical components to outdated wiring systems and defects within the electrical panel. Identifying these conditions is an important part of understanding the electrical system and determining when further evaluation or repairs by a qualified electrician may be required.

Exposed electrical connections in junction box.[/caption]Electrical systems contain many components that can develop problems through age, damage, improper installation or modifications made over the years. During a home inspection, the electrical service, panels, visible wiring, receptacles, switches and other accessible components are examined for defects and conditions that may affect safety or proper operation.

Common findings include loose or damaged wiring, improper connections, double-tapped breakers, missing covers, damaged receptacles, reversed polarity, ungrounded circuits and improper GFCI protection.

Service Panel Size

The electrical service size determines how much electrical power is available to the home. During a home inspection, the service equipment and main disconnect are examined to help determine the amperage of the electrical service. Older homes may have smaller services, while modern homes commonly have larger electrical services to accommodate increased electrical demands.

The size of the main breaker alone does not always determine the service capacity. The service conductors, electrical panel and other components must also be considered when evaluating the electrical service.

Knob and tube wiring is an older electrical wiring system commonly found in homes built from the late 1800s through the early part of the 20th century. The individual conductors are separated and supported by porcelain knobs and pass through wood framing using porcelain tubes.

The presence of knob and tube wiring does not automatically mean the wiring is defective, but its age, condition and any alterations made over the years are important considerations. Problems may include damaged insulation, improper connections, modifications to the original wiring and insulation installed around the conductors. When knob and tube wiring is found during a home inspection, further evaluation by a qualified electrician may be recommended.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection is an important electrical safety feature designed to reduce the risk of electric shock. GFCI protection is commonly required in locations where electrical outlets are near water or exposed to damp conditions.

During a home inspection, accessible receptacles are tested for GFCI protection where appropriate. Missing or improperly functioning GFCI protection is a common electrical defect, particularly in older homes that have not had their electrical systems updated. Installation or correction should be performed by a qualified electrical contractor.

Damaged, loose or broken electrical outlets and switches are common defects found during home inspections. Cracked receptacles, loose switches and damaged electrical components can expose energized parts or result in poor electrical connections.

Accessible outlets and switches are visually inspected and tested during the home inspection. Damaged or loose electrical components should be repaired or replaced by a qualified electrical contractor to prevent shock, arcing or overheating.

Explore more examples of defects found during home inspections, including Structural Defects, Roofing Defects, Heating Defects, Insulation Defects and Thermal Imaging. These pages provide more examples and information from actual home inspections in Barrie and surrounding areas.