What Will Fail An Electrical Inspection Report?

example of what will fail an electrical inspection

If you’re buying or selling a house, or are a homeowner looking to ensure your home is safe, you’ll need an electrical inspection report. An electrical inspection report is a comprehensive assessment of the electrical systems in your home, designed to identify any safety issues or code violations. The report typically includes a checklist that the inspector follows to ensure that all critical areas of the home’s electrical system have been evaluated. Below are items included in most professional electrical inspection reports, as well as what will fail an electrical inspection.

Service Entrance / Electrical Meter Base Inspection

The service entrance is where the electrical service enters the house from the utility company’s lines. The inspector will check to make sure that the service entrance cable is properly secured, the Weatherhead (where the cable enters the house) is in good condition, and that the service panel is appropriately grounded. They’ll also check for proper clearance from the utility lines and that there is no damage to the service cable.

What will cause an electrical meter base to fail inspection:

Overcurrent protection: If the electrical service entrance does not have proper overcurrent protection, such as a circuit breaker or fuse, it will fail inspection.
Grounding and bonding: The electrical service entrance must be properly grounded and bonded to ensure safety. If there are issues with grounding or bonding, the inspection will fail.
Wiring: Any wiring issues, such as loose or damaged wires, can cause an inspection to fail.
Meter socket: The meter socket must be properly installed and free from damage or corrosion. If it is not, the inspection will fail.
Conduit: The conduit must be properly installed and sized for the electrical service entrance. If it is not, the inspection will fail.
Accessibility: The electrical service entrance must be easily accessible for maintenance and repair. If it is not, the inspection will fail.

Electrical Panel Inspection

The electrical panel is where all the circuits in your home originate and is checked to ensure that it is the correct size for the home. It will also be checked that there are no double-tapped breakers (where two wires are connected to one breaker). In an electrical inspection report, they’ll also check for any signs of overheating, rust, or corrosion.

What will cause an electrical panel to fail inspection:

Overcrowding: The panel should not be overcrowded, and there should be enough space for additional breakers if needed.
Inadequate clearance: The panel should have proper clearance around it to allow for safe and easy access for maintenance and repairs.
Improper wiring: If the wiring in the panel is not up to code or is not done correctly, the panel will fail inspection.
No main disconnect: If the panel does not have a main disconnect switch, it will fail inspection.
Double tapping: Double tapping occurs when two wires are connected to the same breaker. This is not allowed and can cause the panel to fail inspection.
Inappropriate circuit breakers: Using circuit breakers that are not rated for the panel or the load can cause the panel to fail inspection.
Grounding and bonding issues: If there are problems with the panel’s grounding and bonding, such as loose or missing wires, the panel will fail inspection.

Branch Wiring Inspection

The branch wiring is the wiring that runs from the panel to the various outlets and fixtures throughout your home. The inspector will check to ensure that the wiring is properly sized for the circuit, that it is adequately protected by circuit breakers, and that no damaged wires or exposed wires are there. Any electrical inspection report will identify any kinds of wiring hazards.

What will cause the branch wiring to fail inspection:

Wiring that is not up to code: Wiring that is not installed according to local building codes and regulations will fail inspection. An inspector may notice this by examining the wiring for proper routing, connections, and labeling.
Overheating: Wiring that has been overloaded or is exposed to excessive heat can cause it to fail inspection. This may be noticed by discoloration or damage to the wiring insulation.
Improper grounding: Grounding issues, such as missing or loose ground wires, can cause wiring to fail inspection. An inspector may notice this by checking the wiring connections and ground rods.
Insufficient wire size: If the wire size is too small for the load it is carrying, it can overheat and fail inspection. An inspector may notice this by checking the wire gauge and the amperage of the circuit breaker.
Loose or damaged wires: Wires that are loose, damaged, or not connected properly can fail inspection. An inspector may notice this by examining the wiring connections for any signs of damage or looseness.
Inadequate wire protection: Wiring that is not properly protected by conduit, conduit fittings, or other protective devices can fail inspection. An inspector may notice this by examining the wiring for any exposed or unprotected areas.
Aluminum wiring: Aluminum wiring that is not properly installed or connected can fail inspection. An inspector may notice this by checking the wiring connections and using specialized equipment to test for potential hazards.

Code Compliance Inspection

The electrical code is a set of standards that govern the installation and use of electrical systems in homes and buildings. There should not be any code violations, such as improper wiring, outdated equipment, or insufficient grounding. The inspector will also report any potential hazards or areas of concern that could become code violations in the future.

What code violations will fail an electrical inspection:

Improper grounding: Electrical systems must be grounded to ensure safety, and the grounding system must be installed and connected properly. If there are issues with grounding, such as missing or damaged grounding wires, the inspection will fail.
Overcurrent protection: Electrical circuits must have appropriate overcurrent protection, such as circuit breakers or fuses, to prevent fires and other hazards. If the overcurrent protection is inadequate or missing, the inspection will fail.
Inadequate wiring: Electrical wiring must be installed correctly, with proper sizing and insulation, to ensure safety and prevent hazards such as electrocution or fires. If the wiring is not up to code or is not installed properly, the inspection will fail.
Inadequate clearance: Electrical equipment, such as panels and meters, must have proper clearance around them to allow for safe and easy access for maintenance and repairs. If the clearance is inadequate, the inspection will fail.
Incorrect use of extension cords: Extension cords should only be used for temporary power, and not as a substitute for permanent wiring. If extension cords are used improperly, such as being run through walls or ceilings, the inspection will fail.
Improper use of outlets: Electrical outlets must be properly installed and grounded, and cannot be overloaded with too many devices or power strips. If outlets are installed improperly or overloaded, the inspection will fail.
Unsafe installations: Any electrical installation that is deemed unsafe, such as unapproved splices, exposed wiring, or other hazards, will fail inspection.

Smoke Detectors Inspection

Smoke detectors are an essential safety feature in any home which is why they are included in our electrical inspection report. These are checked to make sure that there are enough smoke detectors in the home, they are properly located (in bedrooms, hallways, and other critical areas), and they are functioning properly. Make sure that the smoke detectors are interconnected so that if one goes off, they all go off.

What will cause smoke detectors to fail inspection:

Missing smoke detectors: Smoke detectors are required by building codes in many areas and must be installed in certain locations in the home. If smoke detectors are missing from required locations, the inspection will fail.
Non-functioning smoke detectors: Smoke detectors must be functioning properly to detect smoke and alert occupants of a potential fire. If any smoke detectors are not working, the inspection will fail.
Outdated smoke detectors: Smoke detectors have a limited lifespan and must be replaced after a certain period of time. If smoke detectors are past their expiration date or are too old, they may not function properly and the inspection will fail.
Incorrect placement of smoke detectors: Smoke detectors must be installed in specific locations, such as in hallways and bedrooms, to ensure that they will detect smoke in the event of a fire. If smoke detectors are installed in the wrong locations, the inspection will fail.
Lack of interconnected smoke detectors: Smoke detectors that are interconnected will all sound an alarm when one detects smoke, alerting occupants throughout the home. If smoke detectors are not interconnected, the inspection will fail.
Inadequate number of smoke detectors: Building codes specify the minimum number of smoke detectors required in a home based on its size and layout. If there are not enough smoke detectors in the home, the inspection will fail.
Improper wiring of smoke detectors: Smoke detectors must be wired correctly, with proper wiring and connections, to ensure that they will function properly. If the wiring of the smoke detectors is incorrect, the inspection will fail.

Electrical Outlets (including GFCIs, AFCIs) Inspection

Electrical outlets are the most visible part of your home’s electrical system and another item in an electrical inspection report. All of the outlets in your home are checked to ensure that they are properly grounded, wired correctly, and properly polarized. It is also checked if any outlets GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) or AFCIs (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters) are present where necessary. They are special types of outlets that protect against electrical shock and fire hazards.

What will cause electrical outlets to fail inspection:

Missing or damaged outlets: Electrical outlets must be installed in specific locations and must be in good working condition. If there are missing or damaged outlets, the inspection will fail.
Inadequate number of outlets: There must be enough outlets in a room to allow for safe and convenient use of electrical devices. If there are not enough outlets in a room, the inspection will fail.
Overloaded circuits: Electrical circuits must be able to handle the load placed on them without tripping the circuit breaker or causing other issues. If a circuit is overloaded with too many devices or appliances, the inspection will fail.
Incorrect outlet type: Different types of electrical devices require different types of outlets, and using the wrong type of outlet can cause safety hazards. If the wrong type of outlet is used, the inspection will fail.
Improperly installed outlets: Outlets must be installed correctly, with proper wiring and connections, to ensure safety and prevent hazards such as electrocution or fires. If the outlets are not installed properly, the inspection will fail.
Missing or damaged outlet covers: Outlet covers help to prevent accidental contact with electrical components and must be in good working condition. If outlet covers are missing or damaged, the inspection will fail.
Inadequate GFCI protection: GFCI outlets are required in specific locations, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas, to prevent electrocution. If GFCI protection is inadequate or missing, the inspection will fail.

Grounding and Bonding Inspection

Grounding and bonding are important safety features in your home’s electrical system. In an electrical inspection report, it is checked that there is a direct connection between the electrical system and the earth and that all metal components in the electrical system are correctly bonded.

What will cause grounds and bonds to fail inspection:

Missing or inadequate grounding: Electrical systems must be properly grounded to ensure safety and protect against electrocution. If there is inadequate or missing grounding, the inspection will fail.
Improperly installed grounding: Grounding must be installed correctly, with proper wiring and connections, to ensure safety and prevent hazards such as electrocution or fires. If the grounding is not installed properly, the inspection will fail.
Insufficient bonding: Bonding is the process of connecting metal parts of an electrical system together to prevent electrical shocks and fires. If there is insufficient bonding, the inspection will fail.
Improperly installed bonding: Bonding must be installed correctly, with proper wiring and connections, to ensure safety and prevent hazards such as electrocution or fires. If the bonding is not installed properly, the inspection will fail.
Missing or damaged ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection: GFCI outlets are required in specific locations, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas, to prevent electrocution. If GFCI protection is missing or damaged, the inspection will fail.
Improperly installed GFCI protection: GFCI protection must be installed correctly, with proper wiring and connections, to ensure safety and prevent hazards such as electrocution or fires. If the GFCI protection is not installed properly, the inspection will fail.

Passing vs. Failing an Electrical Inspection

An electrical inspection can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure that your home is safe and up to code by identifying potential safety hazards and code violations. Wave Electric Company’s electrical inspection report includes all of the above items and is included for free with any electrical service! Or, if you just want peace of mind, we offer it as a standalone service for $89. With any of Wave Electric Company’s services, all critical areas of your home’s electrical system are thoroughly evaluated. If you need electrical service, call Wave Electric Company today! And don’t forget to check out our Google reviews!