Common Electrical Home Common Electrical Home Inspection ItemsInspection Items

Service WiresService Wires

Grounding SystemGrounding System

PanelPanel

DevicesDevices

Aluminum WiringAluminum Wiring

Outdoor WiringOutdoor Wiring

Service WiresService Wires(Service Entrance Conductors)(Service Entrance Conductors)

Note Existence of WeatherheadNote Existence of Weatherhead Is weatherhead secured to structureIs weatherhead secured to structure Is there an eyebolt presentIs there an eyebolt present

Check Condition of Service CableCheck Condition of Service Cable Deteriorated insulation on conductorsDeteriorated insulation on conductors Deterioration of outer covering of cableDeterioration of outer covering of cable

Deteriorated Insulation

Grounding SystemGrounding System

Grounding Electrode ConductorGrounding Electrode Conductor Connected within 5’ of waterline entranceConnected within 5’ of waterline entrance Must be continuous wireMust be continuous wire Originate from 1Originate from 1stst means of disconnect means of disconnect

Ground RodGround Rod At least 6 ft apart if more than oneAt least 6 ft apart if more than one

Splice in Grounding Electrode Conductor (wire must be one continuous length)

Electrical PanelElectrical Panel

Double TapsDouble Taps

Incorrect Circuit SizingIncorrect Circuit Sizing Exceptions for A/C and motor loadsExceptions for A/C and motor loads

Space availableSpace available

Non Listed BreakersNon Listed Breakers

Beware certain manufacturersBeware certain manufacturers

Not Double Tapped (code compliant)

Double Tapped (code violation)

This breaker is designed for(1) or (2) wires connected at the lug.

Split Buss Panel Label

Standard Panel Label

A/C Name Plate Provides Information on Branch Circuit Requirements

Min. Wire Size

Max. Breaker Size

Min. Breaker Size

Aluminum WiringAluminum Wiring

Concerns of AluminumConcerns of Aluminum

Devices Compatible with AluminumDevices Compatible with Aluminum

AL / CU Wire NutsAL / CU Wire Nuts

Aluminum & Copper Rated Switch

Copper Only Switch

Improper CO/AL Splice Caused Excessive Heat Buildup and Failure of Copper Only Wire Nut

Proper Use of MaterialsProper Use of Materials

Lamp CordLamp Cord

Areas Considered Wet LocationsAreas Considered Wet Locations

Underground WiringUnderground Wiring

Junction BoxesJunction Boxes

LAMP CORD RUN THROUGH WALL (use not permitted)

Not Properly Secured and Supported Wire

Open J-box Behind Stove (box should be secured & covered & all taps made within the box)

Improperly Installed Attic Junction Box (box is not covered and is not secured to joist)