A qualified and competent professional must inspect and test electrical installations in privately rented properties. The inspector wants to ensure work is done up to the code and is perfectly safe. To save yourself the frustration of making mistakes, please continue reading to find out how to prepare your business for an electrical inspection successfully.
1. Reach Out to The Inspector & Get Their Input
The inspector can be a great source of information, so schedule an appointment ASAP. Understand what they expect to see and what issues must be addressed; you’ll have enough time to make the corrections. Items on the inspection checklist vary by industry, so there may be additional requirements. If, for some reason, you don’t pass the inspection, call a licensed electrician.
2. Check For Cord & Electrical Socket Safety
Extension cords are for temporary use only – no more than 90 days. It’s recommended to install permanent wiring when usage is no longer temporary. When using extension cords, ensure they’re not running across highly trafficked areas because they’re a trip hazard. If you want to upgrade the electrical socket, inform your local inspector of the work.
3. Don’t Add New Electrical Items
Of course, new devices shouldn’t be on the circuit because they can cause more risks than you can imagine. Replacing the fuse box takes four to eight hours but doesn’t include additional work, such as rewiring. Everything is probably fine, so don’t disturb the wiring until the inspection. Afterward, you can upgrade to a larger capacity model to cope with the extra demand if you’re extending your business.
4. Create A Comprehensive Inspection Checklist
Having an electrical inspection checklist at hand is a good idea, as you can pinpoint and document any faults or systems at risk. A checklist is editable, so you can add or remove steps as you please; familiarise yourself with the standards before the inspection. Since the electrical inspection will determine if you can push your business forward, invest wisely by creating a comprehensive checklist.
5. Ensure You Have Appropriate Documentation
You must provide the required documents, whether it’s an equipment list or manufacturer’s test certificates. Prepare the documentation ahead of time so that the inspector can inspect the electrical installation on time and issue the safety corticate.
6. Maintain Electrical Equipment Safely
The type and frequency of the checks depend on the equipment, the environment in which they’re used, and the results of previous inspections. You’ll want to make sure employees are safe doing any kind of maintenance work, so supply safety equipment.
7. See If the Wiring Is Consistent
Chances are the wiring is getting a bit old, so have it replaced with copper wiring. Copper wires, in particular, are safer because they’re resistant to heat, so they can eliminate issues of overloading. It’s been determined that aluminium wires are unsafe, so there will be a notification on the final inspection report.
8. Find The Proper Size of the Circuit Breaker
The circuit breaker doesn’t need replacing unless it’s worn out, broken, or malfunctioning. As a rule, you must size the breaker for 125% of the load and no less. An oversized breaker will allow the wires to heat above safety levels.
9. Pay Attention to Junction Boxes
Junction boxes are necessary for most wiring connections because they prevent electrical fires. The reason why building codes require this protection is that the contact between two wires can cause a spark. All junction boxes must be easily accessible – no loose wires are allowed inside, so they must all be clamped onto the box.
10 Hire A Professional
If you want to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible for your business, reach out to an electrician. Find someone who can get you through the inspection process. A level of trust develops between the inspector and the electrician, so the inspection is a mere formality.
Problems and mistakes are all too common, so stay on top of things and ensure optimal safety. Before agreeing to allow the inspector to check your property, make sure they’re who they claim they are.