Top Things to Cover
Don't assume that the wiring at the panel is the only type or age of wiring in building. Check other locations throughout building during inspection to confirm.
Do not do any testing of wiring, we only observe and capture photos
Be alert for temporary wiring in all parts of building
Photos
Include wiring in the photos of panels when possible
Take close ups as needed
Inspection Prep
None required
There are several types of electrical wiring used in buildings. Here are some of the most common types:
Non-metallic sheathed cable (NM) - This is a common type of electrical wiring used for residential applications. It consists of two or more insulated conductors wrapped in a plastic sheath.
Armored cable (AC) - Also known as BX cable, this type of wiring is used in residential and commercial construction. It features a flexible metal sheath around the insulated conductors.
Conduit - This is a protective metal or plastic tubing that houses the wiring. It is often used in commercial and industrial applications, where wiring needs to be protected from damage.
Mineral-insulated copper-clad cable (MI) - This type of wiring is commonly used in high-temperature environments, such as industrial and commercial applications. It consists of a copper conductor wrapped in a mineral-insulated sheath.
Low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH) cable - This is a type of wiring designed for safety in the event of a fire. It produces minimal smoke and toxic fumes, which can help prevent injury or death.
Multi-conductor cable - This is a type of wiring that consists of multiple insulated conductors in a single cable. It is commonly used in commercial and industrial applications, where multiple wires are needed for different electrical functions.
Each type of wiring has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the specific wiring used will depend on the needs of the building and the electrical system. It's important for insurance inspectors to be familiar with the different types of wiring to assess and price risk accurately.
Knob & Tube Wiring
The presence of knob and tube wiring does not mean that it is actually in use. We do not need to determine if K&T is in use or not to identify it as a hazard. Anytime we see K&T in place we make a recommendation to have it removed.
Recommendation: The old knob & tube wiring present in the building may still be in use and should be removed to reduce the hazard.
Temporary Wiring
Temporary wiring must meet the requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and be installed and maintained by qualified persons that apply safe work practices in compliance with industry standards.
Recommendation: The temporary wiring at [ Specify Area(s) ] should be made permanent by a qualified electrical contractor, to reduce the fire hazard.
Unsupported Wiring
Unsupported wires put stress on the wiring which can lead to electrical fires. All wiring needs to be appropriately staples or attached to reduce the electrical hazard.
Recommendation: The wiring in the [ Specify Area(s) ] area should be re-stapled so that it is properly supported. This will minimize the potential for breaks, cracking and insulation wear.
Insulation Worn
Insulation or wire covering can be damaged by rodents, age, sunlight, heat, etc.
Recommendation: The wiring at [specify area] was noted to have damage insulation or exposed wiring and should be repaired by a professional electrician to reduce the hazard.
Excessive Use Of Outlet Strips
More than one outlet strip per outlet would be considered excessive. Numerous outlet strips suggest the need for additional outlets.
Recommendation: The excessive use of outlet strips at [ Specify Area(s) ] should be discontinued and additional outlets should be installed by a qualified electrical contractor, to reduce the fire hazard.
Cords Under Carpet
This can cause the cords to wear and result in shock or fire hazard.
Recommendation: The placement of extension cord(s) beneath carpets or rugs at [ Specify Area(s) ] should be discontinued and necessary wiring should be made permanent by a qualified electrical contractor, to reduce the fire hazard.
Fabric Covered Wire
If you identify cloth or fabric covered wiring, it was probably installed prior to 1960. This older wiring would be considered a high hazard and would need to be upgraded.
Recommendation: The fabric or cloth covered wiring at [ Specify Area(s) ] is not to current standards and should be replaced by a qualified electrician to reduce the hazard.