Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a home, there are some common home inspection electrical issues that need attention. While some findings are minor and easy to fix, others can pose serious risks if left unresolved.
At Current Electrical Contractors in Jacksonville, FL, we often help homeowners correct problems noted in inspection reports — and many of the same items tend to pop up again and again.
Here’s a look at the most common home inspection electrical issues flagged and what they actually mean.
🔌 1. Double-Tapped Breakers
What it is: Two wires connected to a single breaker that’s only rated for one.
Why it’s an issue: This can lead to loose connections, overheating, and potentially fire.
How we fix it: We remove the 2 wires connected to the breaker, tie them together with a wire nut and pigtail wire, and connect the 1 pigtail wire to the breaker.
⚠️ 2. Missing GFCI Protection
What it is: Outlets near water sources (kitchens, bathrooms, garages, exterior, etc.) that don’t have ground fault protection.
Why it’s an issue: GFCIs are a safety requirement that helps prevent electrical shock.
How we fix it: We replace standard outlets on the line-side feed with GFCI receptacles or upgrade the circuit protection at the panel.
⚠️ 3. Ungrounded Outlets
What it is: Outlets that don’t have a ground wire — often found in older homes.
Why it’s an issue: Ungrounded outlets can increase the risk of shock and damage to electronics.
How we fix it: Depending on the wiring, we may rewire the house or install GFCI outlets as a code-compliant workaround.
🔥 4. Outdated or Damaged Electrical Panels
What it is: Panels that are overloaded, poorly labeled, damaged, or part of known recalled brands like Federal Pacific or Zinsco.
Why it’s an issue: These panels may have breakers that do not trip properly, creating a fire hazard.
How we fix it: We replace the panel with a modern, code-compliant version and ensure all circuits are clearly labeled.
🧰 5. Exposed Wiring or Junctions
What it is: Wiring that’s visible, spliced without a box, or missing protective covers.
Why it’s an issue: Exposed wiring is a safety hazard.
How we fix it: We install proper junction boxes, secure the wiring, and add covers as needed.
🏠 6. Lack of Arc Fault Protection
What it is: Newer code requires arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) in many areas of the home.
Why it’s an issue: AFCIs detect dangerous electrical arcs that can start fires.
How we fix it: We install AFCI breakers in the panel or upgrade branch circuits where necessary.
🧯 7. Smoke Detector Issues
What it is: Outdated, missing, or non-interconnected smoke detectors.
Why it’s an issue: Smoke alarms are a key part of home safety and are required to be interconnected in many municipalities.
How we fix it: We install new, hardwired detectors with battery backup and interconnect them per code.
⚠️ 8. White Wire Used as a Hot Without Proper Identification
What it is: A white (neutral) wire used as a hot leg in a 240V circuit but not properly marked with black or red tape.
Why it’s an issue: White wires are supposed to be neutrals, so using them as hot conductors without correct labeling creates confusion and safety hazards for anyone servicing the system.
How we fix it: We properly identify the wire with black or red tape.
💡 Final Thoughts on Home Inspection Electrical Issues
Home inspections often catch electrical issues that range from minor to major — but every item has one thing in common: it’s worth addressing. Fixing these problems not only helps with home sale negotiations but also keeps your family and property safe.
At Current Electrical Contractors, we work with homeowners, buyers, sellers, and real estate agents in Jacksonville, FL to resolve inspection report findings quickly and professionally.
🔧 Need help with your home inspection or home inspection electrical issues?
📞 Contact us today or contact our preferred home inspector — we’ll take care of it the right way, the first time.
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