Tips of the Trade: Facing Your First Electrical Inspection
Inspections can be challenging for any new electrical contractor, but facing an inspection for the first time - as the person in charge - can make even the most confident leaders a little nervous.
To help you prepare for your first electrical inspection, e-conolight turned to experts from across the country. Together they compiled a checklist of valuable tips to get you on the right path, and equip you for the future.
| ☐ Know the Code |
According to Giorgio Garcia from In-Line Electrical in Newark, NJ, any licensed electrician should be able to recite the code book. “An inspection isn’t about how good you are, you have to know the national electrical code,” he said. “Take a course to help you prepare for the test. They’re worth every penny because they’re an investment in your future.” |
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| ☐ Network |
All of our e-conolight experts agree upon the importance of getting to know the local electrical inspector(s). It is crucial to communicate effectively and stay connected with inspectors of where the job is located, in order to have a clear understanding of what’s expected. “If you are doing repeat work in a particular jurisdiction, get to know the inspectors there,” Rhode Island Journeyman Electrician Marco Desrochers said. “Calling and introducing yourself shows you respect their position and want to play by the rules.” Chad Casey, from IN-Line Electrical in Newark, NJ, agrees. “(Inspectors) can give advice and answer questions about their expectations,” he said. “Going in cold without an established relationship can be hard because they won’t know you or your work.” |
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| ☐ Ask Questions |
Asking questions shows that you are eager to learn and want to do the job correctly. Although knowing the code book is a crucial step to the inspection process, inspectors are there to help with questions you may have. Rick Christian adds, “Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification of points you don’t understand or what to know more about.” |
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| ☐ Set Deadlines |
“It’s important to properly fill out the necessary paperwork in full and file the documents on time,” said Jason Janssen of JJ’s Electric in Sioux Falls, SD. Garcia agreed that paperwork is a key step that cannot be done without the same eye for detail as the job itself. “Find out the necessary deadlines and stick to them,” he continued. “Don’t forget to allow plenty of lead time for plans, permits, and other documents.” |
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| ☐ Finish the Job |
Electrical inspectors keep busy schedules; avoid the need for a return trip by doing the job right the first time. “Be 100 percent complete,” said Justin Metcalf from Full Spectrum Services in Boise, ID. “Inspectors get frustrated if work isn’t finished and you’re rushing to complete.” |
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