Electrical Panel Inspection Issues

Electrical issues are the most common inspection finding — and one of the most important. Here's what to know.

Why Electrical Findings Matter

Electrical issues are the #1 cause of residential fires. Unlike a cosmetic concern, electrical problems can be genuinely dangerous. However, most electrical inspection findings are minor and inexpensive to fix.

Common Electrical Findings

  • Missing GFCI outlets: Required in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, outdoors. Fix: $150–$300 per circuit. Simple
  • Double-tapped breakers: Two wires on one breaker — fire risk. Fix: $150–$300. Very common
  • Federal Pacific / Zinsco panel: Known fire hazard panels. Replacement strongly recommended: $1,500–$3,000
  • Aluminum wiring: Pre-1972 homes. Higher fire risk. Pigtail remediation: $2,000–$5,000
  • Knob and tube wiring: Pre-1950 homes. Not inherently dangerous but limits insulation and may affect insurance
  • Undersized panel: 60-amp or 100-amp panel for modern loads. Upgrade to 200-amp: $1,500–$3,000

Negotiation Approach

Safety-related electrical issues (hazardous panels, aluminum wiring) are strong negotiation items. Request credits for panel replacement or wiring remediation. Sellers rarely push back on safety items because they create liability. Minor items (missing GFCIs, double-tapped breakers) are inexpensive — handle them yourself post-closing.

Cost range

Electrical repair range: $150–$15,000

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