Understanding Your Home’s Electrical System: What Inspectors Look For and Why It Matters

When you flip a switch or plug in a device, you probably don’t think twice about the complex electrical system powering your home. Yet, behind every light fixture and receptacle is a network of wiring, circuits, and panels that must work safely and efficiently to protect your family and investment.

At Greater Way Home Inspections, we believe that a safe home is the foundation for a strong family — and understanding your home’s electrical system is key to that safety.

🔍 What a TREC-Licensed Inspector Evaluates

During a standard TREC home inspection in Texas, your electrical system is evaluated from the service entrance to the interior components. Here’s what’s included:

1. Service Entrance and Meter

We begin where electricity enters the home — inspecting the service drop, meter, and grounding connections. Proper grounding and bonding help prevent dangerous shocks or surges during storms.

2. Main Panel (Breaker Box)

The electrical panel is the heart of your home’s system. We check:

• The main disconnect and breaker labeling

• Proper wire sizing for each circuit

• Signs of overheating, corrosion, or double-tapped breakers

• Presence of aluminum wiring or other potential hazards

If your home still uses fuses or an outdated panel brand known for safety issues, we’ll explain why an upgrade may be recommended.

3. Branch Circuits and Wiring

From the panel, electricity flows through circuits to the fixtures and receptacles throughout the home. We inspect:

• Visible wiring types and condition

• Proper junction box covers and secure connections

• Functionality and grounding of receptacles

Modern homes use copper wiring with protective sheathing, but older homes may contain outdated or unsafe materials that require attention.

4. Receptacles, Switches, and Fixtures

Each accessible receptacle and switch is tested for proper operation, polarity, and grounding.We also verify the presence of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) and AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter)protection where required — especially in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and bedrooms.

5. Lighting and Fans

We look for secure mounting, proper wiring, and safe fixture operation. In attics or crawl spaces, we also check that wiring is protected and not damaged by pests or improper installation.

⚠️ Common Issues We Find

Some electrical issues are simple fixes; others could pose serious fire or shock hazards. Common findings include:

• Missing GFCI/AFCI protection

• Double-tapped breakers

• Overcrowded or mislabeled panels

• Exposed wiring or open junction boxes

• Outdated two-prong receptacles

• Improper grounding or bonding

These problems can often be corrected by a qualified electrician — and catching them early can prevent costly or dangerous failures later.

💡 Why Electrical Safety Matters

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical faults are one of the leading causes of home fires. A professional inspection gives you peace of mind that your wiring, breakers, and receptacles are operating safely and efficiently.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining your home, a detailed electrical inspection helps you:

• Protect your family’s safety

• Prevent costly repairs or damage

• Understand your home’s capacity for future upgrades (like EV chargers or solar panels)

🏠 Greater Way Home Inspections: Helping Families Make Wise Decisions

As a TREC-licensed professional inspector, we’re trained to evaluate your entire electrical system and explain our findings clearly — so you know what’s safe, what’s serviceable, and what needs attention.

We don’t just look for problems; we help you make wise, informed decisions about your home — because that’s what we’d want for our own family.

📞 Ready to Schedule?

Electrical safety isn’t something to overlook. If you’re buying a home, schedule your Greater Way Home Inspection today.

👉 Visit www.greaterwayhomeinspections.com or call (979) 335-5004 to book your inspection.

Because safe homes build strong families.