Residential (House) Electrical Inspection Checklist
Outlets
Inspect outlets for loose plugs, which can cause overheating and fire.
Replace missing (or) broken wall plates.
Ensure safety covers are installed on all unused outlets accessible to minors.
Line Cords
Ensure cables are in good shape, not frayed or damaged.
Place them away from high-traffic areas.
Do not nail or staple cables to walls, baseboards, or other objects.
Cords should not be under carpets, rugs, or furniture resting on them.
Extension Cords
Ensure extension cables are not overloaded and should only be used temporarily, not as permanent wiring.
Ensure extension cables have safety latches to prevent youngsters from shocks and mouth burns.
Plugs
Ensure all plugs fit firmly into outlets.
Avoid removing the ground pin (third prong) from a three-prong plug to suit a two-conductor outlet, as this can cause an electrical shock.
Do not force a plug into a socket if it does not fit.
Prevent overloading sockets with too numerous appliances.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
GFCIs can help to avoid electrocution. When a GFCI detects current leakage in an electrical circuit, it implies there has been a ground fault. It then cuts power quickly enough to help avoid major injury from an electrical shock. GFCIs can be put at the outlet or as a circuit breaker for a whole circuit in the fuse box.
Kitchen Bathrooms Garage Laundry room Outdoors
Ensure GFCIs function correctly by testing them monthly and after large electrical storms, following manufacturer directions.
Light Bulbs
Ensure bulbs in the light fixtures are the appropriate wattage for their size.
Replace bulbs that exceed the recommended wattage; if unsure, consult the fixture manufacturer.
Ensure bulbs are tightly screwed in; loose bulbs might cause overheating.
Circuit Breakers/Fuses
Ensure that circuit breakers & fuses have the appropriate current rating for each circuit. If you’re not sure what size to use, have an electrician identify & label it. Always change a fuse with correct size fuse.
Ensure everyone in your household knows where main breaker is and how to turn off power to the entire house.
Plug In Appliances
Prevent plugged-in gadgets from coming into touch with water. If a plugged-in appliance goes into water, DO NOT reach in to pull it out - even if it is turned off. First, turn off the power at the panel board, then unplug the appliances. If your appliance has become wet, do not use it till it has been inspected by a certified repair technician.
Appliances
Unplug an appliance if it routinely blows fuses, trips circuit breakers, or causes a shock. Have it fixed or replaced.
Entertainment/Computer Equipment
Ensure equipment is in good condition & working properly. Check for cracks (or) damage in wire, plugs, and connectors.
Use a surge protector with the seal of a nationally recognised certification agency.
Outdoor Safety
Avoid using electric mowers and tools in rainy or wet circumstances.
Inspect power tools and electric lawn mowers before use for frayed cables, broken plugs, and cracked housings. If any part becomes damaged, avoid using it immediately. Repair or replace it.
Use outdoor extension cords that are rated for your tools’ power requirements.
Remember to disconnect any portable power equipment while not in use.
When utilising ladders, keep an eye out for overhead cables and electrical lines. Maintain at least a 10-foot distance from all overhead lines.
Lightning
To prepare for an electrical storm, avoid using appliances (e.g., hairdryers, toasters, and radios), taking baths or showers, and keeping batteries on hand for flashlights & radios. Additionally, use surge protectors on electronic devices, phones, fax machines, and modems.
Space Heaters
Space heaters provide supplemental heat. Keep space heaters a minimum of 3 feet away from flammable things such bedding, clothing, drapes, furniture, and rugs.
Use space heaters in supervised areas and unplug them when not in use.
Plug space heaters directly into outlets on unburdened circuits instead than using extension cords.
Halogen Floor Lamps
Halogen floor lamps use substantially greater temperatures than traditional incandescent light bulbs. Place halogen floor lamps away from curtains, clothing, and other combustible objects.
Turn off the lamp when leaving a room for a lengthy period of time.
Avoid using torchiere lamps in children’s bedrooms (or) playrooms. Consider using cool fluorescent floor lighting.
Checklist Template
Sample Home Electrical Inspection Checklist.pdf (102.2 KB)
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