Electrical inspections might not be something homeowners think about often, but they’re important for keeping your home safe and energy efficient. It’s easy to ignore minor electrical issues like flickering lights or unusual sounds from your outlets, but these can be signs of deeper problems.
Left unchecked, they could lead to serious hazards such as fires, electrocution, or expensive repairs. At Right Touch Electrical, we take electrical inspections seriously, providing top-notch services to homeowners in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas.
Key Takeaways
- Electrical inspections prevent hazards like fires and system failures.
- Common electrical issues in older homes often require inspections.
- Post-storm inspections ensure your wiring is safe.
- An electrical inspection is recommended every 1 to 3 years, depending on the age of your home.
What Is an Electrical Inspection?
An electrical inspection is a detailed assessment of your home’s electrical system to prevent potential hazards. The goal is simple: make sure everything is safe and up to code. It’s one of those things you don’t want to put off because electrical issues can go unnoticed until it’s too late.
When professionals inspect your system, they can catch problems early. Electrical failures are a leading cause of house fires, so it’s worth having your system checked regularly. Experts generally recommend getting an inspection every 1 to 3 years. This way, if any issues crop up, you’ll know about them before they turn into costly repairs or safety risks.
What Does an Electrical Inspection Cover?
A typical electrical inspection takes a close look at:
- Wiring
- Outlets
- Switches
- Appliances
- Circuit Breakers
- Smoke Detectors
An inspection is like an electrical health check. The electrician will make sure everything works safely, is up to code, and poses no fire hazards. They’ll also give you a report, complete with any recommended repairs or updates.
When Is An Electrical Inspection Required?
So, when do you need to call in a professional? Here are some key situations that call for an inspection.
You Live in an Older Home
If your house was built before the 1980s, chances are you need an inspection. Older homes often have outdated wiring and components that don’t meet current electrical codes and safety standards.
Plus, electrical systems degrade over time. Waiting too long can lead to hefty fines from the city or, worse, major safety risks. If you’re in an older home, schedule an inspection before something serious happens.
You Just Had Electrical Work Done
Even if you’ve hired a licensed electrician for your recent electrical project, it’s still smart to schedule an inspection afterward. New wiring, light fixtures, and outlets need to be double-checked to make sure they’re installed correctly.
While most electricians do a fine job, there’s nothing wrong with getting a second opinion to give you peace of mind.
You Plan to Sell Your Home
Selling a home comes with plenty of challenges, and the last thing you want is a failed electrical inspection delaying the sale. Before you list your property, get your electrical system inspected.
Not only does this make your home more attractive to potential buyers, but it’s also the right thing to do from a safety standpoint. If you’re buying a home, an inspection will reveal any corners the seller might have cut.
You Experienced a Severe Storm
Storms are notorious for damaging electrical systems, and a simple power surge can fry your wiring. If your area was hit by a major storm, get your electrical system checked immediately.
Many electricians offer emergency services and can inspect for damage and make same-day repairs to keep your home safe and functional.
You’ve Noticed Unusual Sounds & Smells
Odd sounds like buzzing or sparking from outlets aren’t normal, and neither is the smell of something burning. These are red flags that something’s seriously wrong with your wiring.
If you notice these, don’t wait, vacate the home if necessary and call 911 if there’s visible fire. Remember, never try to put out an electrical fire with water.
You’re Experiencing Increased Electrical Bills
A sudden spike in your electric bill could be a sign that something’s not right. Faulty wiring or underperforming appliances can cause your system to use more energy than usual.
A licensed electrician can use tools to figure out where the inefficiency lies, saving you money in the long run.
Your Home Contractor Recommends It
Sometimes, your plumber or HVAC tech might recommend you get an electrical inspection during their work. If they do, don’t brush it off. They might have spotted something concerning, and delaying an inspection could cause more harm than good.
If they refer you to an electrician, it’s a smart idea to follow up and get things checked out.
How Often Should You Get an Electrical Inspection?
Routine electrical inspections keep your home safe, but how often do you need one?
- Homes less than 25 years old: Every 3 to 5 years.
- Homes over 25 years old: Every 2 to 3 years.
Older homes with wiring systems like knob and tube should be inspected more frequently. These systems are often out of code and need to be updated to avoid risks.
Questions To Ask Your Electrical Inspector
Make sure to ask these questions during your inspection:
- Is everything up to code?
- Are there any urgent safety hazards?
- How old are my electrical systems and appliances?
- Are there any upgrades that could save me money?
- How can I prolong the life of my electrical systems?
Keep Your Home Safe With Right Touch Electrical
Right Touch Electrical offers comprehensive inspections, repairs, and code compliance services to homeowners in Houston, TX, and nearby areas. Whether it’s time for a routine check-up or you’ve experienced electrical issues, they’re ready to help.
With their expert knowledge, they bring “quality with a master’s touch” to every job they do. Don’t wait until it’s too late—reach out today to schedule an inspection and keep your home safe.
FAQs
How long does an electrical inspection take?
A typical electrical inspection takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the size of your home and the complexity of your system.
What should I expect during an inspection?
Your electrician will check your wiring, circuit breakers, outlets, switches, and appliances. They’ll provide a report detailing any safety hazards or code violations.
Can I do my own electrical inspection?
It’s always best to hire a licensed electrician for inspections. While DIY projects might be tempting, electrical systems are dangerous if mishandled, and mistakes can lead to fires or electrocution.
Final Thoughts
Staying on top of electrical inspections can save you money and give you peace of mind. Don’t ignore red flags like flickering lights or strange odors as these could be signs of a bigger problem. Reach out to a licensed electrician and schedule regular inspections to keep your home safe and energy efficient.
