Electrical Inspection Checklist for Home Sellers: What Inspectors and Insurance Companies Look For

Let’s be honest. Waiting on a home inspection report can be nerve-racking. You’re hoping everything checks out, but in the back of your mind, you’re bracing for unexpected problems. And when it comes to electrical systems, those issues can be intimidating, expensive, and deal-breaking.

The good news? Once you know what inspectors and insurance companies are actually looking for, you can tackle problems head-on and keep your closing on track.

If you're preparing to sell your home, one of the most common questions you might find yourself Googling is:

• "What electrical issues do home inspectors look for?"

• "How do I pass an electrical inspection when selling a home?"

• "What do insurance companies check during a 4 point inspection?"

• "What electrical repairs are required before closing?"

The truth is, whether it is a buyer’s home inspector or an insurance company doing a 4 point inspection, they are often checking for the same red flags, and many of them are electrical.

Why Electrical Inspections Matter When Selling a Home

Electrical issues are one of the top reasons home sales get delayed or fall through. Even if everything seems to work, inspectors are looking for safety, code compliance, and signs of outdated or improper work. Insurance underwriters are especially strict. Older or unsafe systems can lead to denied coverage or higher premiums for buyers.

Most Common Electrical Issues That Can Fail a Home Inspection

These are the top electrical red flags that show up in inspection reports and insurance evaluations:

⚠️ Outdated or Recalled Electrical Panels
Federal Pacific (FPE), Zinsco, Challenger, or Pushmatic brands
Panels with signs of corrosion, rust, or overheating

⚠️ Double Tapped Breakers or Lugs
Two wires connected to a single breaker or lug is a code violation and a fire risk

⚠️ Missing or Faulty GFCI Protection
GFCI outlets are required in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages, and outdoor locations

⚠️ Exposed Wiring or Open Junction Boxes
Commonly found in attics, garages, or unfinished spaces
All wire connections must be enclosed in a covered, code-compliant junction box

⚠️ Ungrounded Outlets or Two-Prong Receptacles
Especially common in older homes
These pose a shock risk and can damage electronics

⚠️ Reverse Polarity Outlets
These are often caused by improper wiring and can create safety hazards

⚠️ Aluminum Wiring (Branch Circuits)
Common in homes built in the 1960s and 1970s
Can lead to loose connections, overheating, and increased fire risk

⚠️ Overloaded or Improperly Wired Circuits
Overuse of extension cords or DIY wiring
Circuits that trip often or lack proper load balancing

⚠️ Improper Grounding or Bonding
Panels that are not properly bonded can become a major safety hazard

⚠️ Missing or Non-Functioning Hardwired Interconnected Smoke Detectors
Required in many jurisdictions for code compliance and buyer safety

What Insurance Inspectors Check (Especially in Florida)

If you're in a state like Florida, many insurance companies require a 4 point inspection for homes over 25 years old. The electrical portion focuses on:

• Brand and condition of the panel

• Type and age of wiring (copper vs aluminum)

• Proper use of GFCIs and AFCIs

• Overall condition and safety of the system

Electrical Questions to Ask Before Listing Your Home

• Is my electrical panel up to code?

• Do I have GFCI outlets where required?

• Are there any visible wires or open boxes in the attic or garage?

• Are there signs of overheating in my panel or outlets?

• Do I have any two-prong or reverse polarity outlets?

• Have any recent electrical upgrades been permitted and closed out?

• Are my smoke detectors hardwired and interconnected as required?

How to Prepare Your Home (and Avoid Closing Delays)

Before listing your home or going under contract:

✅ Schedule a licensed electrician to do a pre-listing electrical inspection
✅ Replace outdated panels or double tapped breakers or lugs
✅ Install GFCI outlets where missing
✅ Correct any reverse polarity or ungrounded outlets
✅ Secure all wiring in junction boxes with covers
✅ Ensure all smoke detectors are hardwired and interconnected
✅ Pull and close permits for any work previously done without one

Tackling these ahead of time can save you stress, protect your deal, and give your buyer more confidence in the home.

Bonus: Flexible Payment Options for Sellers

At Envision Electrical Solutions, we understand that selling a home comes with a lot of upfront costs. That’s why we offer:

• Payment after closing for homes under contract

• Financing options for larger electrical upgrades

Final Thoughts

Whether you searched for "how to pass a home inspection" or "electrical issues that scare buyers," the key is to address problems before they show up on the report. A safe, code-compliant electrical system makes your home more attractive to buyers, helps avoid closing delays, and gives everyone peace of mind.

Need help? We work with homeowners, realtors, and insurance companies every day to handle repairs quickly, cleanly, and correctly.

📍 Serving Fort Lauderdale, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties
📞 Contact Envision Electrical Solutions today for expert help with electrical inspection repairs.