How Much Does an Electrical Inspection Cost?
Typical Range:
$100 - $400
Typical Range:
$100 - $400
Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.
Updated September 30, 2022
Reviewed by Salvatore Cutrona, Angi Expert Review Board member and founder of Cutrona Electric, LLC, in Sherman, CTAn electrical inspection costs between $100 and $400 in the U.S., with an average cost of $160. Prices can vary depending on your home's size, but they're relatively affordable for most homeowners. Electrical inspections may also be included as part of a more comprehensive home inspection or as a complimentary service during the completion of electrical repairs.
Average Cost | High Cost | Low Cost |
---|---|---|
$160 | $400 | $100 |
There are a few times when electrical house inspection costs are worthwhile to confirm your home is in good shape. These include:
When you purchase a previously owned home
If you complete an extensive renovation or addition
If you’ve added new appliances in the past decade
If your home is over 40 years old
Annually
Homes built prior to 1960 don’t always have the electrical capacity to handle the load of modern appliances. Because a home’s electrical system is vital to you and your family’s health and safety, consider getting an electrical inspection if you have any concerns or questions about the electricity in your house.
Electrical safety inspection costs may vary depending on the reason for the inspection and whether it’s part of a larger home inspection. Keep reading to learn about the different types of electrical inspections and their price points.
A typical electrical inspection costs between $125 and $200, with an average price of about $200. Most electricians charge a flat rate per inspection. The electrician will thoroughly inspect your home's wiring, electrical panel, circuit breakers, outlets, smoke detectors, and more to ensure everything is working correctly.
Electrical inspections for code compliance are often free. These inspections are often included as a complimentary add-on when your electrician is doing other work in your house. They're a cost-effective way to ensure your electrical system is up-to-date and prevent electrical issues before they become serious.
Electrical inspections are often included as part of a more comprehensive home inspection, including house features like your foundation, roof, and HVAC system. Home inspections cost an average of $340, though they can be as much as $400.
“Electrical inspections are not something most people think about, but are certainly worth the cost when an electrical problem becomes apparent,” says Salvatore Cutrona, Angi Expert Review Board member and founder of Cutrona Electric, LLC, in Sherman, CT.
If you’re interested in a home inspection that includes other elements in addition to an electrical inspection, get in touch with a home inspector near you to discuss your options.
If an inspection turns up anything amiss with your electrical system, you’ll need to get it repaired. Here are some common electrical repairs and their costs:
Upgrade or replace an electrical panel: One of the more expensive electrical repairs, the cost to replace an electrical panel is about $1,180.
Install or replace an outlet: The typical cost to install an electrical outlet is around $210.
Repair a lighting fixture: The cost to repair a lighting fixture is about $200.
Install a switch: For a minor electrical job, the cost to install a light switch is around $150.
Installing new wiring: If your home needs it, the average cost to wire a house is $1,400.
When it comes to your home’s electrical system, always err on the side of caution and hire a professional electrician near you. Not only can DIY electric repairs be dangerous in the moment, but they can also increase the risk of electrical fires and other dangers down the line.
While it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your home’s electrical system to spot any issues that arise, only a trained electrician will have the experience to recognize and diagnose electrical issues. Get in touch with an electrician near you for an electrical inspection quote.
Some inspection red flags include outdated wiring and low voltage. These problems with your electrical setup can increase the risk of a home fire. If there's a serious issue with your electrical system, your electrician may have to install new electrical wiring or a new electrical panel. New electrical wiring or panels cost about $550 to $2,200, depending on how much work is necessary.
You should get an electrical inspection to ensure the safety of your home and your family. An electrical inspection may not be your first concern when buying or renovating a house. But making sure your system is up to date and properly functioning is one of the best ways to prevent electrical malfunctions and ensure your home is as safe as possible. The cost to rewire a house is less than the cost of replacing it.
To prepare for an electrical inspection and ensure it goes as smoothly as possible, do the following:
Make a note of any questions or concerns you’d like to raise with the electrician.
Write down any electrical problems or malfunctions with your circuits, lighting, outlets, or appliances.
Ask the electrician which areas they’ll need to access and make sure they have access before the home visit.
During an electrical inspection, your electrician will follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) to ensure your home is safe and protected against electrical fires and other dangers per the legal safety standards. They will inspect your electrical system, wires, appliances, meter box, panel, circuit breakers, and more.
Once they complete the inspection, you'll receive a detailed checklist of everything they checked, plus a report with photo evidence of the most urgent issues. The report may also include advice on how to save energy.
An electrical inspection itself may take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, but how long it takes will depend on the size and condition of your home.
Once you call an electrician, you should be able to schedule an inspection within the next couple of weeks. If you have potentially dangerous electrical problems that constitute an emergency situation, the electrician may be able to prioritize your inspection.