Inspecting Househole Wiring

Inspecting Household Wiring is a very important part of a home inspection, but what things are included in a home inspection?
To answer that question here are some of the things that are included in the electrical portion of a home inspection:
1-Check for open splicing (wires connected outside of a junction box)
2-Check junction boxes for covers and open knock-outs
3-Look for knob and tube wiring
4-Test outlets for open grounding and reverse polarity
5-Check for GFCI protected outlets in kitchens, baths, and exterior receptacles
6-Check for cover plates on all receptacles
7- Check to make sure that all electrical devices are securely mounted

Understanding Interrupters
The term “interrupter” refers to fusses, breakers, GFCIs, or any other device that is designed to interrupt the electricity traveling thought a circuit. Here is a list of some of the circuit interrupts and their use.
Main Breakers
Interrupts circuit to protect equipment (not people)
Must not exceed wire capacity or equipment load

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)
GFCIs are designed to reduce the chance of serious shock to people
Three types of GFCIs are:
Receptacle type
Circuit Breakers
Portable Devices
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI)
AFCIs are designed to reduce fire hazards
New Electrical code effective 01/01/02’ will require AFCI circuits in bedroom circuits on all new homes


It is a good idea to have your electrical system evaluated when having other electrical work done. It does not take a qualified electrician long to evaluate the safety of your electrical system, it’s worth it!