How Often Should You Have an Electrical Inspection?

Do you know the condition of your home’s electrical system? If you’re like many homeowners, as long as the lights come on and everything works, you probably assume that everything’s in good condition. 

That can be a dangerous assumption. Electrical issues are a leading cause of house fires, and you might be living with safety hazards without even realizing it. The question, then, is how often should you have an electrical inspection to make sure everything’s in good shape? 

When To Schedule Electrical Inspections 

The ideal timeframe for electrical inspections depends in large part on your home’s age. 

Newer properties (i.e., those built within the last decade) are less likely to have outdated wiring or other issues and need fewer inspections. 

In this case, the question of, “How often should you have an electrical inspection?” depends on whether you’re having issues or want to give yourself peace of mind. Consider having a licensed electrician check things out at least every five years. 

Older homes, especially those that are more than 20 years old, need an electrical inspection about every three years. 

Other Times To Schedule Inspections

Electrical inspections should also be a part of the home-buying process. Before you purchase a house, have a professional look at the system to be sure there aren’t any major issues that need attention. An inspection before you put your home on the market can give potential buyers greater confidence in the property. 

Rental property owners should also plan on checking the electrical system frequently. Landlords must maintain compliance with local regulations and handle electrical code violations promptly.

Homeowners should also plan on an inspection after they complete renovations. Building codes stipulate that an inspector must sign off work at different project stages, even when completed by a licensed electrician.

Finally, if you notice significant changes in your average electricity usage, schedule an inspection. Something may be wrong that requires repair to keep your bills in check. 

Other Times to Schedule Electrical System Maintenance 

While these are general guidelines for how often you should have an electrical inspection, there may be times when you need to have an electrician check on the system sooner. Addressing issues at the first sign of trouble can prevent a fire or other issues, so arrange for a professional evaluation if you notice:

• Excessive heat from switches and sockets
• Burning smells coming from outlets, fixtures, or switches 
• Frequent tripped circuit breakers 
• Flickering lights 
• Lights that dim when you plug something else into an outlet 
• Unusual noises from fixtures 

These are all signs of electrical problems that could create safety issues if you don’t address them immediately. 

Schedule an Electrical Inspection With Rogers Heating & Cooling 

If the answer to, “How often should you have an electrical inspection?” has you thinking that it’s time to check your home’s wiring, call Rogers Heating & Cooling at (434) 230-0093 to make an appointment today. We’ll make sure your Southside, VA, home has safe and reliable electrical wiring and that everything is up to code. Get help now.