Electrical code violations can pose serious safety risks and may lead to fires, electrical shocks, or other hazards. These violations often result from outdated wiring, improper installations, or modifications that do not comply with current building codes.

If you've discovered electrical code violations in your Pennsylvania property, you should address them promptly. Here's a guide on how to handle electrical code violations and ensure your home or business meets Pennsylvania's safety standards.

Understand What Constitutes an Electrical Code Violation

Electrical code violations occur when electrical work fails to meet the standards set by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations. Common violations include improper wiring, outdated electrical panels, lack of GFCI outlets in wet areas, overloaded circuits, exposed wires, and inadequate or nonexistent grounding.

Understanding the specific violations on your property is the first step in addressing them. A professional electrician familiar with electrical code violations in Pennsylvania can help you identify and correct these issues to ensure compliance and safety.

Schedule a Professional Electrical Inspection

If you suspect or have been notified of electrical code violations, the next step is to schedule a professional electrical inspection. A licensed Pennsylvania electrician can thoroughly assess your electrical system to identify any violations and potential hazards.

During the inspection, the electrician will evaluate various aspects of your electrical setup, including wiring, outlets, circuit breakers, and grounding. This comprehensive evaluation is crucial to creating an action plan to resolve the violations and bring your property up to code.

Hire a Licensed Electrician to Address the Violations

Correcting electrical code violations requires the expertise of a licensed electrician. Electrical work is highly technical and attempting DIY repairs can lead to further violations and safety risks. A qualified electrician who understands the specific requirements for electrical code violations in Pennsylvania can safely and effectively address the issues.

Develop a Plan to Address the Violations

Once your electrician has identified the electrical code violations on your property, they will develop a plan to address each issue. This plan should include a detailed outline of the necessary repairs, upgrades, or replacements to bring your electrical system up to code.

For example, the plan might involve rewiring outdated circuits, upgrading the electrical panel, installing GFCI outlets, or adding proper grounding. Your electrician will also provide an estimate of the costs and timeline for completing the work, allowing you to budget and prepare for the project.

Prioritize Safety and Compliance During Repairs

When addressing electrical code violations, safety should be the top priority. Professional electricians ensure that all repairs and upgrades comply with the latest NEC guidelines and Pennsylvania's local building codes. Your electrician will follow strict safety protocols to minimize risks during the repair process.

If you're dealing with significant violations, such as outdated wiring or overloaded circuits, the electrician may recommend additional safety measures such as installing surge protectors or smoke detectors to enhance overall safety.

Obtain Necessary Permits and Approvals

 In Pennsylvania, certain electrical repairs and upgrades require permits and approvals from local building authorities. Your electrician will guide you through this process, ensuring that all necessary permits are obtained before work begins. Proper permitting is crucial for compliance with local regulations and prevents legal issues that may arise from unpermitted work.

After the repairs are completed, an inspection by a local code enforcement official may be required to verify that the work complies with electrical codes.

Schedule a Final Inspection to Ensure Compliance

After the violations have been addressed, it's important to schedule a final inspection with a local code enforcement official. This inspection verifies that all repairs and upgrades meet the NEC and Pennsylvania’s electrical code requirements.

The inspector will review the completed work to ensure that it adheres to safety standards and does not pose any hazards. Passing this inspection is essential for ensuring that your property is compliant and safe for occupancy.

Document All Repairs and Upgrades

Keep detailed records of all repairs, upgrades, and inspections related to electrical code violations. This documentation serves as proof that you have taken the necessary steps to address the violations and bring your property up to code.

It’s also valuable information if you plan to sell your property in the future, as potential buyers will want to know that the electrical system is safe and compliant. Having these records readily available can simplify the process of transferring ownership and provide peace of mind to buyers.

Conduct Regular Electrical Maintenance

Addressing electrical code violations is not a one-time task. Regular electrical maintenance is essential to ensure ongoing compliance and safety. Schedule periodic electrical inspections with a licensed Pennsylvania electrician to identify and address any emerging issues before they become violations.

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your electrical system, improve energy efficiency, and reduce the risk of future violations. By staying proactive, you can prevent costly repairs and maintain a safe living or working environment.

Educate Yourself on Electrical Safety

While professional electricians handle the technical aspects of code compliance, it's helpful to educate yourself on basic electrical safety and code requirements.

Understanding the importance of GFCI outlets in wet areas, the need for properly grounded circuits, and the risks of overloading outlets can help you maintain a safe electrical system. Being informed enables you to identify potential issues early and take appropriate action to avoid violations and hazards.

Thomas Edison Electric Can Help with Electrical Code Violations

If you're facing electrical code violations and need professional assistance, contact Thomas Edison Electric. Our licensed electricians specialize in resolving electrical code violations in Pennsylvania, ensuring your property is safe and compliant. Schedule an inspection today to address your electrical issues and achieve peace of mind.