Service Line: The service line must have adequate clearance above the ground and other objects (trees, poles, etc.) and must be maintained in a weather-tight condition.
Service Limitations: The service line to the house appears inadequate and limited for present-day standards or normal demands.
Service Disconnect: The absence of a single or sub-main disconnect generally does not affect system function, but may be required or pose a potential safety concern.
Panel Labeling: No determination was made of individual circuit distribution or accuracy of any circuit labeling. Recommended tracing and labeling, or confirmation of labeling of all circuits.
Panel Capacity: The panel appears to be at or near its capacity or is undersized for the house demands. An upgrade of the panel and associated wiring may be required.
Circuit Taps: Generally one conductor (wire) should be connected to fuse, breaker or panel lug. If the panel is at/near its capacity, an upgrade may be required to correct this problem.
Electric Distribution: Electric Service to areas of a house may be minimal to inadequate for present or future needs. Anticipate upgrade needs.
Panel Condition: Evidence of rust or damage in a panel dictates a need for a thorough check by an electrician for any hidden damage.
Breaker/Fuse/Wire Undersized: Oversized fuses and breakers or undersized wires are a hazard and must be corrected.
System Ground: All systems require an adequate ground rod or other suitable grounding provision including a jumper over any water meter.
Sub Panel Ground: It is common, but a potential hazard, to have ground and neutral wires connected at the sub-panel. A check by an electrician will be required to confirm acceptability.
Knob and Tube Wiring: This type of wiring is old, often has worn wire insulation, provides limited service, and negates the use of three pronged grounding receptacles. Anticipate upgrade needs now or in the near future. Advise electrician check system coverage.
Wire Splices: Wire should only be spliced together using approved wire nuts; splices should be installed in a covered junction box. Exposed/tapped wire splices are not proper.
Aluminum Wiring: Aluminum wiring is known to develop loose connections over time, increasing risk of equipment or circuit failure.
Non Grounding Receptacles: While older two-pronged receptacles may be functional, an upgrade is recommended if they are non-polarized, located in high use areas or if usage needs dictate. In many cases, wiring will be required to replace these. Non-grounding receptacles are an immanent safety concern and should be corrected.
Receptacles Polarity: Reversed polarity refers to a receptacle wired incorrectly (hot and neutral wires reversed). Non-polarized refers to a receptacle that will allow inserting a plug with different width blades into either receptacle slot.
GFCI Test/Receptacles: While a defective GFCI will still allow electricity to flow to line receptacles and appliances, an electrician can detect a faulty unit and it should be replaced.
Ground Fault Circuit-Interrupter (GFCI): These electrical devices are designed to improve personal safety and are recommended in all houses. Regular testing of GFCIs is required to ensure proper operation. In most cases, GFCIs have only been required on certain circuits since the mid 1970s. If not present, it is recommended that they be installed in all high hazard areas (e.g. kitchens, bathrooms, basements, garages and exteriors).
Low Voltage House Lighting: Over time the components in this system will malfunction at a greater rate than normal. Anticipate maintenance/upgrade needs.
Light Fixtures/Switches/Receptacles: Any inoperative light fixtures, ceiling fans, receptacles, etc. may be due to defective fixture, lamp, or wiring and will require further investigation.
Auxiliary/Low Voltage Systems: Evaluation of auxiliary, low voltage, electric or electronic equipment (e.g. TV doorbell, computer, cable, lightning/voltage surge protection, low voltage lighting intercoms, etc.) is not part of a standard home inspection.
