Common Electrical Defects Found During Home Inspections
Electrical issues are some of the most frequent—and serious—problems home inspectors come across. They can pose safety risks, reduce energy efficiency, damage appliances, and lead to expensive repairs, especially when rewiring or panel replacement is involved.
In this post, we’ll walk through the most common electrical defects found in homes and how to prevent or fix them.
Double-Tapped Circuit Breakers
A double tap happens when two or more “hot” wires are connected to a single circuit breaker. This can overload the breaker, causing it to trip often—or worse, fail to trip when it should. Loose connections from double tapping can also overheat and spark.
This issue usually stems from DIY wiring or adding circuits without upgrading the panel. It’s a violation of the National Electric Code (NEC) and should be corrected by a licensed electrician.
How to fix it:
An electrician may install additional breakers, replace the existing one with a model that accepts multiple wires, or use approved connectors like pigtail wires.
Reversed Polarity
Reversed polarity occurs when the hot and neutral wires are swapped at an outlet. This can lead to shock hazards, damage electronics, and interfere with surge protectors. It may also affect other outlets on the same circuit.
It’s often caused by incorrect wiring at the outlet or panel. A simple plug-in tester can detect reversed polarity.
How to fix it:
An electrician will rewire the outlet or trace the issue back to the source at the panel.
Ungrounded Outlets
Ungrounded outlets lack a ground wire, which is essential for safely directing excess electricity away from your home. Without grounding, there’s a higher risk of electric shock or fire.
These outlets are common in homes built before 1965, when grounding wasn’t yet required. They typically have two slots instead of three, though some may have been replaced with three-slot outlets without proper grounding.
How to fix it:
An electrician can run new ground wires to each outlet or install GFCI outlets, which offer shock protection even without grounding.
Painted Outlets
Painted outlets might seem harmless, but they can be dangerous. Paint can seep into the slots, creating resistance and overheating. It can also interfere with tamper-resistant features designed to protect children.
How to fix it:
Replace painted outlets with clean, new ones. This is a simple, low-cost fix—just be sure to turn off the power and follow basic safety steps.
Exposed Wiring and Splices
Wiring connections that aren’t enclosed in a junction box with a cover plate are considered exposed. These setups are vulnerable to physical damage, moisture, pests, and accidental contact. They can also spark or catch fire if something goes wrong.
You’ll often find exposed wiring in attics, basements, crawl spaces, garages, or behind walls—usually the result of amateur work or unfinished projects.
How to fix it:
Install proper junction boxes with cover plates. This is another straightforward fix that requires shutting off power and following safety precautions.
Missing GFCI Protection
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets shut off power instantly if they detect a current imbalance—like when electricity flows through a person. They’re required in areas with water, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, garages, basements, and outdoor spaces.
If your home lacks GFCI outlets in these areas—or if existing ones aren’t working—you’re at risk of serious shock hazards, especially when using appliances near water.
How to fix it:
Install GFCI outlets in all required locations and test them regularly to ensure they’re functioning properly.
Final Reminder
Electrical defects aren’t just inconvenient—they can be dangerous. If you notice any of these issues in your home, it’s best to call a licensed electrician. They’ll ensure everything is up to code and safe for your family.