An electrical inspection checklist is a valuable tool for identifying risks, adhering to safety protocols, and ensuring your system operates safely.
At Grounded Electric, we provide complete, code-compliant inspections. Our head electrician, Robert “Bobby” Mulholland, has decades of hands-on experience.
Why Electrical Inspections Matter
Electrical inspections keep homes and businesses safe and up to code. They also help find problems early and improve overall system reliability.
What Does an Electrical Inspection Include?
A licensed electrician checks wires, panels, outlets, and devices. They look for loose connections, test circuit breakers, verify that grounded conductors are correct, and ensure all light fixtures are functioning properly.
The inspection also looks for old parts, missing labels, and overloaded circuits. These checks help prevent fires, comply with insurance regulations, and safeguard people and property.
Barret Abramow, co-owner of Grounded Electric, says regular electrical safety inspections are one of the best ways to avoid serious issues. Homeowners can use inspections to plan upgrades and reduce long-term costs.
What Is the 4-Point Inspection Checklist?
A 4-point inspection examines four key areas: roof, plumbing, heating and cooling, and electrical systems.
For the electrical part, inspectors check the service panel, wiring, grounding, and circuit protection. They look for electrical hazards and test if breakers and bonding are working correctly.
These inspections are common for insurance checks on older homes, especially in New Jersey.
They help insurers understand the condition of a property before offering coverage.
Key Areas in a Residential Electrical Inspection
A residential electrical inspection covers multiple systems and safety features. Knowing what’s included helps you prepare and avoid surprises.
Electrical Panel Inspection Checklist
The panel, or service panel, is the central hub of your electrical system. An inspection checklist for electrical panel safety includes:
- Checking the amperage rating and proper labeling
- Looking for rust, heat marks, or damage
- Checking for loose connections or overloaded circuits
- Testing breakers to make sure they trip properly
- Checking busbars and lugs for signs of heat damage
- Making sure there’s clear space around the panel
- Confirming proper grounding and bonding
- Checking for added equipment like surge protectors or sub-panels
Bobby Mulholland makes sure every panel meets the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local rules. If your panel hasn’t been checked in five years or more, it’s time. Older panels may not support newer appliances or added circuits.
Wiring, GFCIs, AFCIs, and Grounding
This part of the inspection ensures the wiring is safe, grounded, and up to current standards. Faulty or outdated wiring is a top cause of electrical fires.
They look for old wiring, exposed wires, and crowded junction boxes. They test GFCIs (ground fault circuit interrupters) in kitchens, bathrooms, and outside. AFCIs (arc fault circuit interrupters) are tested in living areas and bedrooms.
They also make sure outlets and devices are properly grounded. Grounding helps avoid shocks and fires. Inspectors also look for signs of heat or water damage in outlets and boxes. Any irregularities here may require immediate repair or rewiring.
Smoke Detectors, Surge Protection, and Labeling
This section of the inspection focuses on emergency readiness and overall system clarity. These systems protect people and devices during accidents or surges.
Inspectors test hardwired smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to see if they work and are in the right place. They also check whole-house surge protectors and their connection to the service entrance.
Good labeling on the panel helps identify which breaker controls what. Proper labeling ensures safe repairs and faster response during emergencies.
Poor or missing labels make future work harder and less secure. Keeping this part up to date is crucial for maintaining the system in the long term.
Commercial Electrical Inspection Considerations
Commercial inspections encompass a broader range of systems and adhere to stricter guidelines. Business owners should be aware of what gets checked and how to ensure compliance.
Though this article focuses on homes, commercial buildings need checks like:
- Bigger power setups and transformer-fed systems
- Emergency exit signs and lighting circuits
- Larger breaker panels and load checks
- Circuits for special equipment and backup power
- Generator systems and automatic transfer switches
Grounded Electric does inspections for stores, offices, and multi-unit homes. We follow NEC and New Jersey codes. We also help with paperwork for permits and insurance. Many businesses also request routine inspections to avoid service interruptions.
Using and Creating an Effective Checklist
Having the proper checklist helps inspections run smoothly and ensures nothing is missed. It also helps track progress and plan upgrades.
Electrical Inspection Checklist Residential: Key Areas to Cover
A complete home inspection checklist includes:
- Condition of the main panel
- Circuit breaker tests
- GFCI and AFCI checks
- Bonding and grounding
- Wiring review
- Surge protection and smoke detectors
- Outlet and switch function
- Lights and ceiling fans
- Check for loose wires or overloaded areas
This residential electrical inspection checklist helps cover all areas of your system and shows what may need updates.
It also facilitates a smoother inspection process by ensuring that all steps are thoroughly documented. A well-structured checklist leads to more accurate reports and faster service.
Electrical Inspection Checklist Template: Fillable and Customizable Options
Templates make inspections easier by keeping tasks organized and trackable. They are helpful for both professionals and homeowners.
We recommend using a digital or printed template specifically designed for your space. A good one lets electricians check items by room or system and take notes. It should also allow photo attachments for documentation.
Templates are excellent for large homes or buildings with many units. They help track issues and keep reports consistent. They also help spot patterns or recurring issues during regular maintenance.
Electrical Checklist Format and How to Use It
Checklists should be straightforward and easy to follow. Each section should be grouped by area or system.
Start from the service entrance and panel. Then check wires, outlets, and devices. Use columns for “Pass,” “Fail,” and “Notes.” You can also include time stamps and technician names.
Each step should follow the National Electrical Code and local rules. At Grounded Electric, we use formats that make things clear for both our team and our clients. This helps check for proper safety and function.
Free Electrical Inspection Checklist: What to Download
Many websites offer free checklists, but not all follow current codes. Make sure yours is accurate.
Free checklists can be helpful, but choose one that aligns with the latest code rules and regulations. Grounded Electric offers a free download with all the main home safety items. Ours includes space for notes and reminders.
Homeowners can use it to prepare for a professional inspection or to check systems annually. These checklists help with awareness but are not a replacement for licensed inspections. They are a good tool to use between complete inspections.
What Is an Example of an Electrical Checklist?
Here’s a simple example:
This list is a great starting point for understanding your system. It also helps you spot obvious problems before calling a professional.
Pre-Inspection Tips for Homeowners
Simple steps can help your inspection proceed more efficiently and yield better results. Being prepared also shows your commitment to safety.
To help your inspection go smoothly:
- Keep the area around the panel clear
- List any recent electrical changes
- Unplug sensitive electronics
- Note any ongoing problems like flickering lights
- Make the attic or basement easy to access
- Gather previous inspection reports if available
These steps enable the electrician to work more efficiently and safely. They also show that you care about safety. A clean, well-prepped home makes inspections more accurate and less time-consuming.
Costs, Timing, and Hiring an Electrician
Knowing the cost and timing of inspections helps plan maintenance and avoid urgent repairs. Regular checks also reduce emergency service calls.
What Is the Average Cost for a Home Electrical Inspection?
At Grounded Electric, we offer transparent pricing for all services. Our standard rate is $200 per hour.
Diagnostic visits typically cost between $150 and $300, depending on the complexity of the system and the time required. Emergency calls, when techs are available, start at $350 per hour.
We also provide free quotes for most jobs and always give clear, honest recommendations. Clients can rely on us for fair pricing and dependable service.
The total inspection cost depends on the home’s layout, the age of its systems, and any additional follow-up work that may be required.
When to Hire a Licensed Electrician
Timing matters when it comes to inspections. Don’t wait until there’s a serious problem.
Call a licensed electrician if:
- You’re buying or selling
- It’s been over 5 years since your last inspection
- You smell burning or see flickering lights
- Breakers trip often
- You added a significant appliance
- Your home is older than 1980 and hasn’t been checked recently
Barret Abramow suggests inspections before any big project. It avoids risks and keeps your system up to code. Inspections give peace of mind and protect your home or business.
Grounded Electric has over 30 years of field experience. Led by Robert “Bobby” Mulholland and managed by Barret Abramow, our team focuses on safety, code rules, and trust.
Use an electrical inspection checklist to stay safe and avoid surprise problems. Contact Grounded Electric to book a licensed inspection today.
