When you're considering buying a new house, a home inspection gives you the reassurance that all the systems and fixtures are in working order. However, these professionals’ jobs are to perform a semi-thorough check of many areas of the property, rather than to hone in and take a detailed look at any particular component. With this in mind, consider hiring an electrician separately to look at the wiring. With 51,000 residential electrical fires per year, taking extra precaution is worthwhile.

Why You Should Give a Home’s Electrical Work a Second Look

1. Identify Shock & Fire Risks

Old, incorrectly installed, or badly repaired wiring is one of the most dangerous features a house can contain. An electrician is the only person qualified to identify problem areas and provide electrical repairs, if necessary.

2. Apply Industry Standards

Modern homes are built to higher standards than older ones. We use more electrical devices than ever, so modern breaker boxes and wiring systems are designed to accommodate more current. There are also more safety features like GFI outlets built into modern homes. Your electrician can tell you how the home's wiring measures up and what it would take to upgrade the house so you won't have to deal with overloaded circuits with normal, everyday use.

3. Negotiate a Better Price

Once you have a professional's opinion of the home's electrical wiring, you're in a better negotiating position. If there are any problems, you can make it a condition of the sale that the current owner will fix the issue before you move in. Alternatively, you can negotiate a discount that will cover the needed repairs.

If you need an electrician for a new home inspection or electrical repairs, choose ABC Electric Company in Lincoln, NE. Serving Lancaster, Gage, Otoe, Seward, Saline, Butler, Saunders, and Cass counties, they have almost 85 years of experience. They also provide 24/7 emergency service. Learn more about their offerings on their website. To schedule an appointment, call (402) 435-3514.