What We Look For (And What We Don’t): Electrical System Overview — What We Inspect and Why It Matters

If there’s one part of the inspection where precision really matters, it’s the electrical system. Not because it’s complicated—but because it’s potentially dangerous. I inspect panels, test outlets, and identify safety risks. But I don’t remove wires or confirm every connection deep inside the walls. And for good reason.

When I Open the Panel (And When I Don’t)

If the main service panel is safely accessible—dry, unlocked, and not restricted by the builder—I’ll open the dead front cover and document what’s inside. I look for breaker labeling, wire gauge, bonding, grounding, overheating signs, improper double-taps, missing knockouts, and more.

But if it’s raining, there’s standing water, or the panel is locked or tagged “Do Not Open,” I leave it closed and note it in your report. Safety first—every time.

GFCI vs. AFCI: Know the Difference

I test all accessible outlets—especially kitchen, bathroom, garage, and exterior receptacles—with a plug-in tester. I verify GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) and AFCIs (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters) wherever required or installed.

GFCI = detects water-related shock risks. Think bathrooms, kitchens, laundry, outside.
AFCI = detects dangerous arcing. Required in most living areas of newer homes.

If a breaker or outlet fails to trip—or if a GFCI outlet is missing in a required location—I’ll call it out. Sometimes it’s a missing upgrade. Sometimes it’s a safety hazard. Either way, it matters.

What I’m Looking For—And What I’m Not

✅ I’m looking for: visible wiring types, safety devices, improper breakers, overheated connections, open grounds, and code-recommended safety upgrades.
❌ I’m not looking to: remove wiring, test every conductor, open sealed junction boxes, or verify permit history.

Aluminum Wiring? Yes, I Look for It

Single-strand aluminum wiring (popular in the late 1960s and 70s) is a known fire risk. I’m trained to spot it—typically labeled “AL” on wire sheathing inside panels. Single-strand aluminum expands and contracts more than copper, which can loosen connections and cause overheating.

Multi-strand aluminum (like for your oven or AC unit) is still common today and generally safe when installed properly. But if I see single-strand AL in a place it shouldn’t be—or signs of overheating or incompatible breakers—I’ll recommend evaluation by a licensed electrician.

Three-Prong Outlets Without Grounds

Just because it has three holes doesn’t mean it’s grounded. I test for open grounds at every accessible outlet. If a three-prong outlet isn’t grounded—or worse, falsely wired to show it is—I document it. This is especially common in older homes that were “updated” without proper rewiring. It’s not just about function—it’s about shock risk.

FAQs: What to Expect From the Electrical Inspection

Do you open the electrical panel?

Yes—if safe and accessible. I don’t open panels in wet conditions, when blocked, or when tagged by builders. Your report will note any limitations.

What’s the difference between GFCI and AFCI?

GFCI protects against electric shock near water. AFCI protects against fires from arcing wires. Both are tested when accessible and reported if missing or failed.

Is all aluminum wiring dangerous?

No. Multi-strand aluminum (for large appliances) is fine when installed correctly. Single-strand aluminum in branch circuits can be a fire hazard—and should be evaluated by an electrician.

Do you test every outlet?

Every accessible one, yes. I test for polarity, grounding, trip function, and visible safety risks. Obstructed or sealed outlets are noted as not tested.

→ Next up: Post 16: Electrical Red Flags — Panels and Wiring That Worry Inspectors

← Previously: Post 14: Do You Have Good Bones? What a Structural Inspection Reveals

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