Home Inspector Electrical System Safety Hazards Flashcards
7 cards from real Home Inspector Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Home Inspector Electrical System Safety Hazards flashcards as text
Why are knob-and-tube wiring systems particularly hazardous when insulation has been added to the attic?
Answer: Knob-and-tube relies on open-air cooling; insulation traps heat and can cause fires
Knob-and-tube wiring was designed to dissipate heat into free air; surrounding it with insulation removes this cooling and can cause overheating.
An inspector notices the service entrance cable insulation is cracked and brittle at the weatherhead. What is the primary risk?
Answer: Exposed energized conductors that can arc, spark, or electrocute utility workers and occupants
Service entrance conductors are often not protected by any breaker; exposed live wires at the weatherhead represent an immediate electrocution and fire hazard.
What hazard is created when an electrical panel is located inside a clothes closet?
Answer: Clothing and stored materials can be ignited by arcing or heat from the panel
NEC prohibits panels in clothes closets because combustible materials stored there create a fire risk from panel arcing or heat.
A home has a 60-amp service with a modern electric range, HVAC, and electric water heater. What concern should the inspector note?
Answer: The service is likely undersized, creating overload risk and nuisance tripping
Modern high-draw appliances typically require 100- to 200-amp service; 60-amp service is undersized and creates overload and fire risk.
What is a 'bootleg ground' and why does it fail to provide adequate protection?
Answer: A jumper between the neutral and ground slots of an outlet, which does not provide a true equipment ground path
Bootleg grounds fool testers into reading 'correct' but carry no fault current safely to earth, leaving equipment and users unprotected.
Why is it a hazard when junction boxes are left without covers inside a wall cavity?
Answer: Exposed wire connections can arc and ignite nearby combustible framing
Covers contain any arcing or heat from connections; without them, a failing splice can directly ignite wood framing.
An inspector finds extension cords used as permanent wiring under carpet in a living room. What hazards exist?
Answer: Foot traffic damages insulation, and trapped heat under carpet can ignite fibers
Extension cords are not rated for permanent or concealed use; abrasion and heat buildup under carpet create arcing and fire hazards.