ELECTRICAL

ELECTRICAL

It is hard to imagine homes without electricity. The appliances that we use on a day to day basis that are powered by electricity provide convenience and comfort. Consequently, the electrical systems in a home must be safe and up to the standards of today’s appliance consumption. Since the 1930’s, the use of electricity of an average household has soared. Unfortunately, many home owners have not improved or repaired their wiring to keep it intact and current. 

It is hard to imagine homes without electricity. The appliances that we use on a day to day basis that are powered by electricity provide convenience and comfort. Consequently, the electrical systems in a home must be safe and up to the standards of today’s appliance consumption.

Since the 1930’s, the use of electricity of an average household has soared. Unfortunately, many home owners have not improved or repaired their wiring to keep it intact and current.

During Your Inspection

In accordance with InterNACHI Standards and Policies, the Inspector will examine the following during the electrical inspection:

During Your Inspection

In accordance with InterNACHI Standards and Policies, the Inspector will examine the following during the electrical inspection:

The Power Supply

A home power supply (or current supply) is comprised of multiple different components including:

  • Mechanical damage

  • Deteriorated caulk

  • Flashing defects

  • Fading or cracking paint

  • Damaged screens

  • Cracked glass

  • Putty or glazing problems

  • Broken or damaged seals

  • Wood rot

  • Water damage

These different components all work in conjunction to provide electricity to your home so as to power various fixtures, receptacles, and appliances. While inspecting the power supply, the inspector will be checking all components (including wiring) to make sure they are properly grounded, connected, and do not pose a potential fire hazard. The inspector will make sure to note the type and condition of the wiring as well as any deficiencies in need of immediate correction. This includes frayed or exposed wiring, inconsistent or improper voltage/amperage, or a lack of power in certain areas.

Switches, Lighting Fixtures, Outlets, & Circuit Beakers

While inspecting the electrical system, the inspector will take note of the condition of a representative number of switches, outlets, light fixtures, and circuit breakers throughout the home. This includes stairway, hallways, landings, and foyers. The inspector will identify:

  • Proper coverings and protection against electrical hazards such as shocks or overheating

  • Any observable deficiencies such as frayed or exposed wiring

  • Incorrect receptacle polarity

  • The presence, proper installation, and functionality of GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) and AFCI (arc-fault circuit interrupter) receptacles

GFCI receptacles are typically found in bathrooms, kitchens, and workrooms and are designed to prevent electric shock. Similarly, AFCIs are found in most rooms (with the exception of bathrooms and unfinished basements) and are designed electrical arcing which can cause electrical fires. When available, GFCIs can be tested by using a GFCI tester and AFCIs can tested by using the AFCI test button located on the front of the receptacle.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are critical safety components for any home or building. During the electrical inspection, the inspector will be looking for the presence of both. If either is absent, it required by Washington State law that they be installed. Please note that it is not the requirement of the inspector to test or operate the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors during the inspection.

OUR WARRANTIES & BENEFITS

With Sterling Inspection Group, you not only get an outstanding home inspection, you get the professionals you can depend on after the job is done. Each of our warranties is included with every successfully completed home inspection and add-on inspection services!

READY TO SCHEDULE?

We’ll give you a call and schedule the best time for you!

The Sterling Difference

With the Sterling Inspection Group, you have the leading inspection team on your side – flexible scheduling, competitive rates, and over $100,000 worth of warranty coverage FREE with every inspection. Our reports are thorough, detailed, and delivered to you within 24 hours of inspection.

Our team is dedicated to providing superior service and attention to detail that both first time home buyers as well as seasoned property investors can appreciate. Helping people for over 20 years in the home inspection industry, you can feel confident we have the experience to provide peace of mind!

The Sterling Difference

With the Sterling Inspection Group, you have the leading inspection team on your side – flexible scheduling, competitive rates, and over $100,000 worth of warranty coverage FREE with every inspection. Our reports are thorough, detailed, and delivered to you within 24 hours of inspection.

Our team is dedicated to providing superior service and attention to detail that both first time home buyers as well as seasoned property investors can appreciate. Helping people for over 20 years in the home inspection industry, you can feel confident we have the experience to provide peace of mind!

READY TO SCHEDULE?

We’ll give you a call and schedule the best time for you!