Electrical system Inspection

Electrical systems are integral to the functionality and safety of any home. A thorough inspection ensures that the system is operating efficiently, safely, and in compliance with standards. Faulty or outdated electrical systems can pose significant hazards, such as fire or electrical shock. Below is a detailed checklist of the key components we evaluate during an electrical systems inspection.

Wiring and Outlets

Inspect visible wiring for damage, fraying, or signs of wear. - Test outlets for proper functionality and grounding. - Ensure proper placement of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets in areas prone to moisture (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms).

Circuit Breaker Panel

Circuit Breaker Panel: - Check the condition and labelling of the circuit breaker panel. - Test circuit breakers for proper operation and ensure no signs of overheating. - Evaluate the panel's capacity to handle the home's electrical load.

Lighting Systems

Inspect indoor and outdoor lighting fixtures for damage or faulty connections. - Test light switches for proper operation. - Ensure all fixtures are properly installed and free of hazards.

Electrical Safety

Inspect for potential electrical hazards, including overloaded circuits, exposed wiring, or outdated components. Verify the presence and basic operation of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire alarms (if installed). Recommend professional evaluation where necessary to ensure safety and compliance.

Socket Grounding

We use a socket tester to check that outlets are correctly wired and properly grounded. This helps identify potential electrical safety issues and confirm that the system is functioning as expected.

Electrical Box Inspections

Inspect visible junction boxes for secure covers, no exposed wires, and signs of damage.

Outdoor Electrical Systems

Visually inspect exterior outlets, lighting, and wiring for weatherproofing, damage, and signs of wear.

Thermal Imaging

Identify potential electrical hotspots using thermal imaging for early detection of overheating components.

Disclaimer:All inspections are non-invasive and visual.. Testing is limited to accessible components. Advanced testing or repairs should be performed by a licensed electrician.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - CASCAIS

QUESTION: WHAT DOES AN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM INSPECTION INCLUDE?

ANSWER: An electrical inspection checks wiring, outlets, circuit breakers, distribution boards, grounding, lighting systems, outdoor electrical components, electrical safety devices, and thermal imaging for hotspots. It identifies hazards, outdated wiring, loose terminals, overloaded circuits, and faults that could cause fire or electrical failure.

QUESTION: WHY IS PROPER GROUNDING IMPORTANT IN A HOME?ANSWER: Grounding ensures electrical faults are safely directed into the earth instead of into appliances or people. Poor grounding can cause shocks, appliance damage, or fire risk. A socket tester verifies grounding in every outlet.

QUESTION: WHY DO SOME OF MY OUTLETS NOT WORK?ANSWER: Non-functioning outlets may be caused by loose wiring, tripped breakers, failed connections inside junction boxes, damaged outlets, or GFCI protection that has tripped. An inspection identifies whether the issue is local or within the distribution board.

QUESTION: WHAT CAUSES LIGHTS TO FLICKER OR DIM?ANSWER: Flickering usually results from loose connections, poor wiring, overloaded circuits, failing switches, or voltage fluctuations. In some Cascais areas, external supply variations can also cause dimming. Thermal imaging helps detect overheating connections.

QUESTION: WHAT ARE SIGNS OF DANGEROUS OR OUTDATED WIRING?ANSWER: Signs include exposed wires, fabric-insulated wiring, frequent tripped breakers, warm outlets, buzzing sounds, discoloured sockets, and brittle insulation. Older Cascais homes often require upgrades for safety.

QUESTION: WHY DOES MY CIRCUIT BREAKER TRIP OFTEN?ANSWER: Frequent tripping indicates circuit overload, faulty appliances, damaged wiring, moisture intrusion, or a weak breaker. An inspection tests each circuit to find the root cause and ensure safe load distribution.

QUESTION: WHAT DOES A CIRCUIT BREAKER PANEL INSPECTION CHECK?ANSWER: It checks breaker performance, labelling accuracy, tightness of connections, signs of overheating, proper load balancing, and grounding quality. It also checks whether the panel meets current safety standards.

QUESTION: CAN THERMAL IMAGING HELP IDENTIFY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS?ANSWER: Yes. Thermal imaging detects hotspots in wiring, outlets, breakers, and electrical panels. Hotspots indicate loose terminals, overloaded circuits, or failing components. Early detection prevents fire risk.

QUESTION: WHY DO I SMELL A BURNING ODOUR FROM AN OUTLET OR SWITCH?ANSWER: This may signal overheating, loose wiring, arcing, or a failing component. It is a fire hazard and requires immediate inspection.

QUESTION: WHAT CAUSES MY LIGHT SWITCHES TO FEEL WARM?ANSWER: Warm switches may indicate poor connections, high loads, or ageing switches. Continuous warmth is a sign of electrical stress and should be inspected.

QUESTION: WHY ARE MY OUTDOOR OUTLETS OR LIGHTS NOT WORKING?ANSWER: Outdoor systems often fail due to moisture intrusion, corrosion, damaged wiring, UV exposure, or incorrect IP-rating installations. Outdoor electrical inspections check weather protection and safety.

QUESTION: WHY DOES MY ELECTRICAL BOX HUM OR BUZZ?ANSWER: Buzzing usually indicates loose connections, overloaded circuits, failing breakers, or arcing. Thermal imaging helps detect hidden heat before major failure occurs.

QUESTION: SHOULD I INSTALL GFCI OR RCD PROTECTION IN MY HOME?ANSWER: Yes. RCD/GFCI protection helps prevent electric shock and is essential in kitchens, bathrooms, and exterior locations. Many older homes in Cascais lack modern safety devices.

QUESTION: HOW OFTEN SHOULD MY ELECTRICAL SYSTEM BE INSPECTED?ANSWER: Every 3–5 years, or sooner if you notice flickering lights, tripping breakers, warm switches, or smell burning. Older properties or homes near the coast benefit from more frequent checks.

QUESTION: SHOULD I GET AN ELECTRICAL INSPECTION BEFORE BUYING A HOME?ANSWER: Yes. Electrical repairs can be costly, and many older homes have outdated wiring or safety issues. A pre-purchase inspection helps you budget properly and avoid hazards.