How much does an electrical inspection cost?
How much does an electrical inspection cost?
$100 – $200 average electrical inspection cost
Average electrical inspection cost
An electrical inspection costs $100 to $200 on average, depending on the home's size and age. During an inspection, the electrician checks the safety and condition of the wiring, circuits, and other electrical components, then provides an electrical safety certificate and a report detailing recommended repairs.
| National Average Cost | $145 |
| Minimum Cost | $50 |
| Maximum Cost | $250 |
| Average Range | $100 to $200 |
*Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.
Electrical inspection cost by type
| Type | Average cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Standard electrical safety inspection | $100 – $200 | Basic inspection to check the electrical panel, wiring, circuit breakers, and outlets for safety and function |
| Code compliance | Included in repair cost | Final inspection upon completion of electrical repairs to ensure the work is up to code |
| Infrared electrical inspection | $150 – $350* | A high-tech thermal inspection of the electrical and other systems to detect hot spots, typically priced as an add-on service with a home inspection |
| Home inspection costs | $250 – $400 | A comprehensive home inspection that includes a report on the state of the home's electrical system |
*Add-on cost does not include the home inspection fee.
Standard electrical safety inspection & certificate cost
A standard electrical safety inspection costs $100 to $200 on average for a complete check of the home’s electrical system. The inspection includes a certificate or letter stating the electrical system is up to code, working properly, and the home is protected against surges, fire, or electric shocks.
An electrical inspection may be required when obtaining a homeowners insurance policy, applying for a mortgage, or refinancing a home. A standard electrical inspection is also recommended when:
The home is more than 40 years old to ensure the electrical system is safe to use
Before purchasing a home to ensure the electrical system is up to code
During a home renovation to replace any faulty wiring as part of the project
Adding a major appliance to ensure the system can support the appliance
Experiencing electrical problems such as circuit breakers tripping
Electrical inspection cost for code compliance
An electrical inspection for code compliance is part of any electrical repair project and is included in the repair cost. Whenever an electrical permit is issued, the work must be inspected and pass the minimum code requirements for safety.
Infrared electrical inspection cost
An infrared electrical inspection costs $150 to $350 as an add-on to a complete home inspection. The inspection uses high-tech infrared thermal imaging of the electrical system to look for “hot spots” behind walls that indicate defective equipment, overheated electrical circuits, or loose connections.
Home inspection
A home inspection costs $250 to $400 and includes an electrical inspection along with checks of the home’s structure, exterior, roof, plumbing, and HVAC systems. The inspector provides a report recommending improvements and repairs.
Before buying a new home, schedule a complete home inspection to reveal any problems.
Cost factors of an electrical inspection
An electrical inspection takes 1 to 2 hours, with most electricians quoting a flat fee rather than an hourly rate. The flat rate includes a detailed report of the findings, with separate fees for any emergency repairs.
Other factors that impact the electrical inspection cost include:
Inspectors' rates – Regional labor rates and the technician's level of experience affect the inspector's rate. A Master electrician charges the highest rates at $100 to $120 per hour, while a Journeyman electrician averages $50 to $70 per hour.
Inspection type – A code compliance inspection is free with most electrical repairs. A standard electrical safety inspection costs less than a complete home inspection that includes a check of the home’s electrical safety along with its other systems.
House size and condition – Larger properties have more wiring and connections to test, increasing the inspection time and costs. Older homes with outdated electrical systems may require additional safety checks.
Difficulty of access – Inaccessible wiring and panels may increase inspection time and costs.
Travel fees – Some companies charge a per-mile fee for travel outside of their service range.
Commercial vs. residential – Commercial properties should be inspected by an experienced commercial inspector. Electrical inspections of commercial properties typically cost more than residential inspections.
Immediate repairs – An electrician costs $40 to $100 per hour for any repairs detected during the inspection. Fire or electrical surge hazards require immediate attention, with most electricians performing emergency repairs on the spot.
Commercial electrical inspection cost
Commercial electrical work requiring a permit includes a base number of inspections in the permit fee. A project must pass inspection before the permit can be closed. Additional annual inspections are recommended for businesses to stay compliant with National Electric Code (NEC) and local regulations.
Electrical repair costs after inspection
After an inspection, the electrician provides a written report that includes repair recommendations and an estimate for completing the repairs. Electrical repairs cost $140 to $400 for small jobs like replacing an outlet or switch, while large jobs like rewiring a house cost $1,500 to $8,000.
*Including parts and labor.
Electrical inspection FAQs
What happens during an electrical inspection?
An electrical inspection evaluates the entire electrical system for safety, including the light switches, outlets, appliances, and electrical panel. A thorough inspection includes the following checks:
Evaluate the condition of the meter box, electrical wiring, and cables.
Test breakers and safety switches.
Confirm the electrical panel is installed securely and grounded.
Inspect switches, wall outlets, and GFCI outlets.
Confirm the light fixtures and appliances are powered correctly.
Investigate all possible surge, fire, or shock hazards.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
When is an electrical inspection required?
An electrical inspection is required for new home construction, room additions, or major remodels that require a building permit. The inspection confirms the new installation meets minimum code requirements for electrical safety against fire or electrocution.
The electrical work is inspected at least twice during a building project:
A rough inspection takes place when the electric box and wiring are in place, before the walls are closed-up.
A final inspection takes place after the construction project is complete before occupancy is allowed.
How often should you have an electrical inspection?
Most electricians recommend having an electrical inspection every 3 to 5 years, or more frequently for older homes. Annual inspections are recommended for homes more than 40 years old due to the fire risk from outdated wiring.
How long does an electrical inspection take?
An electrical inspection takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property and the number of circuits that need testing. Older properties with outdated electrical systems have more problems, increasing inspection time.
How to prepare for an electrical inspection
To prepare for an electrical inspection, be sure to:
Provide a clear, safe path to all the electrical components being inspected.
Replace any missing light bulbs.
Ensure the circuit breakers on the main electrical panel or the fuses in the main fuse box are properly labeled.
Have a qualified person on-site to open or remove access panels for the inspector.
Prepare a written list of all components that were installed, repaired, or modified.
How do you pass an electrical inspection? What happens if you fail?
To pass an electrical inspection, the completed electrical work must follow all NEC and local building codes and the system must be deemed safe from fire hazards. A certificate of occupancy will not be issued until the electrical system passes the inspection and the home is deemed safe.
Getting estimates from electrical inspectors
When finding and hiring an electrical inspection company near you, be sure to:
Look for a licensed electrician that has been in business for 5+ years.
Browse their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Get three quotes for the same inspection type to compare.
Avoid the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Don’t pay in full up front. Make the final payment upon receipt of the inspection report.
Questions to ask
How many years have you been inspecting residential electrical systems?
Are your inspectors up to date on the latest code changes?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
What does the electrical inspection include?
Do you provide a detailed inspection report explaining your findings and recommended repairs?
Do you guarantee your inspection results?
How long will the inspection take?
Will you provide a list of local references with contact information?
May I have a copy of your insurance policy for my records?