A home inspection covers a lot of ground in a few hours, and electrical issues can slip through or get a one-line mention in the report. Before you close, here’s what deserves a closer look.
Start with the panel. Check the brand, since Federal Pacific Stab-Lok and Zinsco panels are known hazards. Look for rust, scorch marks, and double-tapped breakers, where two wires share a breaker that isn’t made for it. Note the service size, too. If you plan to add an EV charger, a hot tub, or a heat pump, an older 100-amp service may need an upgrade.
Check the outlets and switches: missing GFCI protection in the kitchen, bathrooms, garage, and outdoors; two-prong or ungrounded three-prong outlets; and outlets that are loose, cracked, discolored, or warm to the touch.
Watch for DIY work: open junction boxes, exposed splices, extension cords stapled along walls as permanent wiring, and patchwork wiring in the attic or basement. Unpermitted work can be a safety problem and an expense down the road.
If the inspection report recommends evaluation by a licensed electrician, take it seriously and schedule it before your inspection deadline. Problems are much easier to negotiate before closing than to pay for after.
