The inspection of the electrical system includes the service drop through the main panel; subpanels including feeders; branch circuits, connected devices, and lighting fixtures.

1. (1) The inspector will:

   1. (a) Describe in the report the type of primary service, whether overhead or underground, voltage, amperage, over-current protection devices (fuses or breakers) and the type of branch wiring used.

   2. (b) Report

      1. (i) The existence of a connected service-grounding conductor and service-grounding electrode when same can be determined.
      2. (ii) When no connection to a service grounding electrode can be confirmed.
   3. (c) Inspect the main and branch circuit conductors for proper over-current protection and condition by visual observation after removal of the readily accessible main and subelectric panel cover(s).
   4. (d) Report, if present, solid conductor aluminum branch circuits. Include a statement in the report that solid conductor aluminum wiring may be hazardous and a licensed electrician should inspect the system to ensure it's safe.

   5. (e) Verify

      1. (i) The operation of a representative number of accessible switches, receptacles and light fixtures.
      2. (ii) The grounding and polarity of a representative number of receptacles; particularly in close proximity to plumbing fixtures or at the exterior.
      3. (iii) Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection and arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection where required.
   6. (f) Report the location of any inoperative or missing GFCI and/or AFCI devices when they are recommended by industry standards.
   7. (g) Advise clients that homes without ground fault protection should have GFCI devices installed where recommended by industry standards.
   8. (h) Report on any circuit breaker panel or subpanel known within the home inspection profession to have safety concerns.
   9. (i) Describe any deficiencies of these systems or components.

2. (2) The inspector is not required to:

   1. (a) Insert any tool, probe or testing device into the main or subpanels.
   2. (b) Activate electrical systems or branch circuits that are not energized.
   3. (c) Operate circuit breakers, service disconnects or remove fuses.

   4. (d) Inspect ancillary systems, including but not limited to:

      1. (i) Timers.
      2. (ii) Security systems.
      3. (iii) Low voltage relays.
      4. (iv) Smoke/heat detectors.
      5. (v) Antennas.
      6. (vi) Intercoms.
      7. (vii) Electrical deicing tapes.
      8. (viii) Lawn sprinkler wiring.
      9. (ix) Swimming pool or spa wiring.
      10. (x) Central vacuum systems.
      11. (xi) Electrical equipment that's not readily accessible.
   5. (e) Dismantle any electrical device or control, except for the removal of the deadfront covers from the main service panel and subpanels.
   6. (f) Move any objects, furniture, or appliances to gain access to any electrical component.
   7. (g) Test every switch, receptacle, and fixture.
   8. (h) Remove switch and receptacle cover plates.
   9. (i) Verify the continuity of connected service ground(s).

[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.280.050 and 18.280.060(6). WSR 09-08-014, § 308-408C-110, filed 3/20/09, effective 4/20/09.]