Why Electrical Inspections Matter
In this guide, you’ll learn how to pass your electrical inspection the first time and prepare your home step-by-step, with confidence.
Philadelphia homes have character, from classic South Philly rowhomes to 1950s colonials in the suburbs. But that charm often comes with aging wiring that wasn’t built for today’s high-powered lifestyles.
Modern homes rely on more electricity than ever before: air conditioning, smart devices, and high-demand appliances all put stress on older systems. That’s why electrical inspections matter. They aren’t just about checking boxes for compliance. They’re about protecting your home, family, and investment.
Passing your inspection means your wiring is safe, efficient, and insurance approved. Failing, however, can lead to costly re-inspections, frustrating delays, and even redoing completed work.
Understand What Inspectors Look For
Before you pass your electrical inspection, it helps to know what the city inspector actually looks for, and what they don’t. They’re not judging your paint color, décor, or whether wires are perfectly hidden. Their focus is safety, functionality, and compliance, the essentials that prevent electrical fires and shocks.
In Philadelphia, inspectors follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) along with local rules from the Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I). These standards can be stricter than in surrounding suburbs, especially for older rowhomes with outdated wiring or grounding.
Here’s what inspectors typically review:
- A clearly labeled electrical panel that’s easy to access.
- GFCI outlets in wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
- AFCI breakers in living spaces to prevent electrical fires.
- Proper grounding and bonding throughout the system.
- Junction boxes that safely enclose all wire connections.
- A visible, valid permit and proof that a licensed electrician did the work.
If your wiring looks unsafe, unfinished, or like a DIY project, it probably won’t pass. Neat, labeled, and professional-looking work gives inspectors confidence and helps you pass faster.
Step 1: Get Your Permits & Paperwork in Order
Most failed inspections happen before they even start, because of missing paperwork. In Philadelphia, almost all electrical projects, like panel upgrades or new lighting, require a permit from the Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I).
If you’ve hired a licensed electrician, they’ll usually handle this. Still, double-check that your permit is active and posted near your electrical panel or entryway. If the inspector can’t find it, they can’t proceed, which means delays and extra fees.
Keep the following ready:
- Receipts or invoices from your electrician
- Spec sheets for new panels or major equipment
- Notes from any previous inspections
Pro Tip: Pro Tip: Check your permit status anytime on the Philadelphia L&I eCLIPSE portal
Finally, make sure all work was done by a licensed contractor, not a handyman. Licensed electricians understand code requirements and file the proper paperwork. Clear documentation shows the inspector your home is safe, and your project is professional.
Step 2: Prepare the Electrical Panel
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s system, and one of the first places inspectors look. A clean, well-organized panel instantly shows that your electrical work is safe and professional.
Ensure Easy Access
Keep at least 30 inches wide and 36 inches of open space in front of the panel. Make sure the door opens fully, the area is well-lit, and nothing is blocking access.
💡 Quick Tip: Many inspections fail because the panel is blocked by storage boxes or furniture. Keep it clear and easy to reach.
Label Each Circuit Clearly
Inspectors love clear labels. Use plain descriptions like “Kitchen Lights” or “AC Unit,” not “Misc.” or “#4.” A neatly typed or written directory taped inside the panel door is ideal.
Check Wiring and Breakers
Before inspection day:
- No double-tapped breakers (unless designed for it).
- All open slots covered with knockout fillers.
- Wires neatly arranged and securely attached under breaker lugs.
- No exposed copper or loose strands.
Final Touches
Secure the panel cover with all screws in place, make sure the main disconnect is labeled, and wipe the area clean. Professional presentation counts. ’s electrical system meets the same standard and that’s one of the simplest ways to pass your inspection the first time.
Step 3: Check GFCI and AFCI Protection
Two small devices make a big difference in passing inspection, and keeping your home safe: GFCIs and AFCIs.
What GFCIs Do
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protects you from electrical shock in wet areas. You’ll find them in:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry rooms
- Basements
- Garages
- Outdoor outlets
They detect when electricity starts leaking and shuts off power instantly.
Homeowner Tip: Look for outlets with “TEST” and “RESET” buttons. Press “TEST” to trip it, then “RESET” to restore power. Make sure each one works before your inspection.
What AFCIs Do
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) protect against electrical fires caused by loose or damaged wiring. They sense sparks and shut off power before a fire starts. Most newer homes use AFCI breakers in living areas such as bedrooms and hallways.
Inspectors will check that all GFCI and AFCI protection are installed and function properly. In some cases, you may need combination breakers that provide both types of protection. Your licensed electrician can confirm if your home needs them.
Step 4: Grounding and Bonding
Grounding and bonding are essential for keeping electricity moving safely through your home. Grounding connects your electrical system to the earth, giving electricity a safe path if there’s a fault or surge. Bonding connects all metal parts: conduits, boxes, and panels, so they work together to prevent shock or fire.
Inspectors often fail homes because of missing or loose grounding connections. Every outlet, fixture, and panel must be properly grounded. In older Philadelphia homes, you might still see two-prong outlets without grounding; these should be replaced with GFCI-protected or grounded three-prong outlets.
If your home has a metal conduit, there’s good news: most Philly rowhomes already have built-in bonding through that metal piping. Still, it’s worth having an electrician to confirm that everything is continuous and properly connected to your main grounding system.
Proper grounding and bonding may not be visible, but they’re crucial for safety, and for passing your inspection.
Learn more about simple ways to prevent electrical hazards from the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI)
Step 5: Fix Exposed Wiring & Open Junction Boxes
Take a quick look around your home before the inspection day. If you spot exposed wires or open boxes, fix them now. Every place where wires connect (called a splice) must be enclosed inside a junction box with a cover plate.
Inspectors will check attics, basements, and garages for loose or hanging cables. Even one exposed wire can cause an automatic failure because it’s a potential fire or shock risk.
Quick Tip: Walk through unfinished spaces and make sure every junction box has a cover, and all cables are neatly secured. These small fixes can save you from costly re-inspections
Step 6: Ensure Fixtures and Devices Are Installed Correctly
Your fixtures and devices are the finishing touches and inspectors notice the details.
- Make sure all outlets and switches are secure and flush against the wall.
- Inside your home, outlets should be tamper-resistant (TR) for child safety.
- Outdoor and damp area outlets must have weatherproof, in-use covers.
- Light fixtures should be securely mounted and rated for their location (“damp-rated” for bathrooms, “wet-rated” for outdoors).
Homeowner Tip: Walk through your home and look for anything that seems unfinished; crooked switches, missing plates, or wobbly fixtures. Fixing them now helps you avoid easy failures later.
Day-of-Inspection Prep
A little preparation makes the inspection day simple.
- Clear clutter from around your panel, basement, and attic.
- Make sure all lights, switches, and outlets work.
- Keep the home well-lit for easy access.
- Secure pets for everyone’s safety.
- If possible, have your electrician present to answer questions.
Pro Tip: Treat the inspection like hosting a guest; a clean, organized space makes a great impression and speeds up the process.
What Happens If You Fail, and How to Avoid It
Sometimes inspections don’t go as planned, and that’s okay. If your system doesn’t meet code, the inspector will issue a correction notice, not a fine. After fixing the issues, you can schedule a re-inspection, though there’s usually a small fee.
Most failures come from simple mistakes: missing GFCIs, uncovered junction boxes, or poor labeling. A quick pre-inspection walkthrough from a licensed electrician can catch these problems early and help you pass on the first try.
Pro Tip: Failing an inspection isn’t the end; it’s a learning opportunity. But when you plan, you’ll likely pass the first time with no surprises.
Conclusion: Confidence Over Guesswork
Passing your electrical inspection isn’t luck, it’s preparation. When you know what inspectors look for and take time to get your home ready, the process becomes quick, predictable, and stress-free.
With the right checklist and help from a licensed Philadelphia electrician, you’ll save time, avoid re-inspection fees, and gain peace of mind knowing your home is safe.
Ready to get started?
Read our free “Electrical Inspection Checklist – Philadelphia Edition.”
Book a pre-inspection safety walkthrough before your inspection date by calling (215) 512-4102 or visit GEN3.NOW.
With a little preparation and the right support, you’ll be ready to pass your electrical inspection the first time, with confidence and peace of mind.
