In order to apply for or change your home insurance, the provider will often require an electrical inspection before confirming your rate. This process can be stressful to the homeowner, mainly because these inspections usually occur amidst other hectic processes like buying or selling a house. You can do a few simple things to prepare for your electrical inspections that will ease your mind and make the inspection quick and successful.
- Communication is key. Once you’ve selected an electrical company to perform the inspection, ask for insight into what they look for in a passing inspection. While there are industry standards, some subjectivity may vary from company to company. It is helpful to know exactly what they need to see and what some of the most common failings they find so that you can have any issues repaired before the inspection is performed. They can also take this opportunity to tell you what areas they need access to so that you can ensure they are free of clutter and easily navigated.
- Review safety guidelines for your cords and outlets. An inspector will call out any unsafe use of items like extension cords, surge protectors, and outlets. If you aren’t sure whether you are using these items in compliance with the industry safety standards, review the guidelines for your items. For example, extension cords should not be daisy-chained together, and power bars or surge protectors should not be overloaded. Unused outlets should be covered with plastic caps. Wires should not be covered by rugs or other materials that allow the wires to heat up.
- Provide quick and easy access to important areas. The meters and breaker boxes of your electrical system may be blocked by doors, shelves, boxes, or other items. You can help speed up the inspection process by ensuring these areas are clear before the inspector arrives. In general, pathways to these key areas should be kept clear so that you can easily reach them in the case of an emergency.
- Take a look at your home’s safety equipment. Up to date safety equipment is necessary to pass an inspection. This includes your home’s wiring and any smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors (whether or not they are hard wired), fire extinguishers, GFCI units, and other safety items. Why? These items are essential in quickly detecting issues related to electrical safety and thus are considered part of a standard electrical inspection. If you notice that some of these safety items have expired or have been tampered with, you should replace them before your inspection.
Though electrical inspections are necessary for getting approved for an insurance quote, remember that they are also intended to help keep you safe and informed about your home’s electrical system. The inspection may identify problems about which you had not been previously aware, which could have caused a serious issue down the line. By making the appropriate preparations and listening to your inspector’s advice, you can ensure your home passes inspection and is protected against electrical dangers.
Promise Electric is one of Sarasota’s most trusted companies, providing residential and commercial electrical services. Call us today if you need a professional master electrician or help with your electrical inspections.
