When you need a real electrical inspection
- Buying or selling a home in MD, DC, or VA
- Insurance renewal flagged the system
- Home is over 40 years old
- Major addition or remodel
- After a lightning strike or storm event
- Before installing an EV charger or major appliance
A home inspector's general check is not an electrical inspection. They look at sample outlets and the panel cover. A licensed electrician removes covers, scans for heat, and tests every protective device.
What's in the checklist
Service equipment - Brand, model, amperage of main panel - Meter base condition and seal - Service entrance cable type and condition - Grounding electrode system (ground rod, water bond, gas bond) - Surge protection status
Branch circuits - AFCI coverage where required (bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens) - GFCI coverage in baths, kitchens, garages, outdoors, basements - Aluminum branch wiring presence - Knob-and-tube remnants - Junction boxes accessible and covered
Devices - Outlet tester on every accessible outlet - Reversed polarity, open ground, open neutral, hot-neutral reverse - GFCI trip/reset test on every device - AFCI trip test where present - Switch operation and identification
Lighting and fixtures - Recessed light insulation contact rating - Fan and chandelier box ratings - Outdoor fixture weatherproofing
Safety devices - Smoke alarm count and location vs code (one per bedroom, one per level) - CO alarm count and placement - Battery age (most should be replaced every 10 years)
Deliverable
A written report with photos, severity rating per item, and prioritized recommendations. Used for buyer/seller negotiation, insurance, or simply a maintenance plan.
Contact a licensed electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, or Northern Virginia at (202) 926-7065 or request a free estimate for a planned electrical project. Estimates for planned installations and upgrades are free. For troubleshooting requests, our team will explain any applicable charges before confirming an appointment.
