Electrical Home Inspection: The Experts Weigh In

Electrical components and wiring are integral to your home. Most homeowners take electricity and its components for granted, as they run behind the scenes in their homes, giving them the chance to enjoy modern comforts.

However, did you know that electrical problems are one of the top causes of fires in homes? To protect your home from such an occurrence, you need to ensure that your entire electrical system is inspected and up to code. The electrical inspection process is complicated and, therefore, you likely can’t do it on your own.

Don’t worry, though, in this article, we will cover the basics such as what is an electrical inspection, why you need it, and what to inspect. This way, you will familiarize yourself with the process and understand the reasoning behind it. So, let’s get into it. 

What is an Electrical Home Inspection?

An electrical inspection is a thorough examination of a home’s electrical system. During the process, all the electrical wires, components, and appliances are evaluated to ensure they meet safety standards.

Unless you are familiar with the code and have worked with electrical wires before, we recommend that you call in a certified inspector to do the examination. Taking on the task yourself runs the risk of electrocution or damaging the electrical systems within your home. 

You are probably wondering: how often does electrical work need to be inspected? This isn’t one of those processes that must be done on an annual basis. Consider inspecting your electrical system when:

• You buy a new home.
• You’ve lived in a home for 35 years (this ensures the electrical systems are still functioning as they should). 
• You’ve added a heavy electrical appliance. In this case, an electrical inspection is your best bet to make sure that it doesn’t mess with your whole electrical system.
• You’ve had renovation work done on the home. 

Why is an Electrical Inspection Needed?

An electrical inspection is needed to ensure that the electrical systems in your home meet the city’s electrical code and safety standards. It is essential to the safety of your home. The inspection will do the following:

• Ensure that all electrical components are safe to operate.
• Spot any electrical mistakes you or a contractor has made.
• Recognize any wiring issues or outdated wires that need replacement. 
• Identify oversized breakers and fuses that may result in a fire. 
• Help you save money by reducing energy consumption. 
• Give you the assurance that the home you are purchasing meets all electrical safety codes. 

What Does an Inspection Include?

Most electrical inspectors provide the following services. They will:

• Inspect the light bulbs used throughout the home for proper wattage.
• Check the condition of your switch and wall outlets. 
• Look for shock and electrocution hazards. 
• Examine the wires’ grounding system. 
• Check to validate the appropriate surge protection. 
• Make sure that the smoke detectors work and are placed properly. 
• Inspect the carbon monoxide detectors for proper functioning. 
• Check the electrical panels for correct functioning and labelling. 
• Examine the outdoor electrical systems.

You will be given a detailed report after the inspection, which the inspector will explain and go through with you.

Don’t Wait for an Electrical Fire: Have Your Home Inspected Today!

The safety of you and your family is a top priority, and the last thing you want is to compromise that by living in a home that may not meet the electrical safety standards. If you haven’t had an electrical home inspection done in the past few decades, then you should consider doing so.

Commercial building and residential homeowners in Ontario can contact Canadian Wire Wizards for an electrical home inspection and other electrical needs. Our team is licensed by ECRA/ESA, and has over 60 years of combined experience in the field.

You can reach us at 416-755-2700 or book an appointment online.