Whether you're a homeowner, property manager, or business owner, understanding electrical inspections is a key part of keeping your building safe and up to code. At MetroTech Electric in Oklahoma, we’ve helped clients across residential, commercial, and industrial properties protect their people and property through professional electrical inspection services. In this blog, we’ll break down what an electrical inspection is, what the process involves, and why hiring a licensed electrician is so important.
What Is an Electrical Inspection?
An electrical inspection is a thorough evaluation of your building's electrical system to ensure it's working safely, efficiently, and according to code. These inspections are typically done by a licensed electrician and are required in several situations, such as during a property sale, after a major renovation, or when a business is opening a new commercial space.
The purpose of an electrician inspection is to catch problems before they turn into costly repairs or dangerous hazards. Faulty wiring, outdated electrical panels, and overloaded circuits all lead to fires or equipment failures if not handled in time.
According to the Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission, regular inspections help reduce the risk of electrical fires—one of the leading causes of structural fires in the U.S. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association reports that electrical failures or malfunctions caused an estimated 44,880 home fires in the U.S. from 2012 to 2016. (NFPA Report)
Why Electrical Inspections Matter for Businesses and Homes
At MetroTech Electric, we’ve seen firsthand how regular inspections prevent major disasters. For business owners, especially those with industrial operations, electrical inspections are vital for meeting OSHA safety standards and avoiding downtime. A qualified industrial electrician helps identify risks related to heavy machinery, power surges, and grounding systems. For commercial properties, hiring a commercial electrician ensures that all lighting, HVAC, and emergency systems are functioning safely.
For homeowners, inspections are often overlooked until something goes wrong. But investing in routine checkups—especially in older homes— saves thousands in repairs and helps you sleep better at night knowing your electrical system is up to code.
What Happens During an Electrical Inspection?
Whether you're calling a commercial electrician for a business site or a licensed electrician for your home, the inspection process is designed to be comprehensive yet efficient. Here's what you typically expect:
- Visual Inspection – The electrician visually checks all electrical components, including wiring, circuit breakers, outlets, and fixtures for signs of damage, corrosion, or wear.
- Panel and Breaker Check – They’ll open the electrical panel to make sure all breakers are functioning and properly labeled. Overloaded or outdated panels are flagged for replacement.
- Grounding and Bonding Review – The electrician ensures your system is grounded properly to prevent electrical shocks or equipment damage.
- Load Testing – This test checks if the system handles your building's current power needs without overheating or tripping breakers.
- Code Compliance Review – The electrician compares the system to the latest National Electrical Code (NEC) and Oklahoma building standards to identify any violations or outdated components.
- Written Report – After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any issues, recommended repairs, and estimated costs.
How Often Should You Schedule Electrical Inspections?
For most homes, it's recommended to schedule an inspection at least every 3–5 years or before selling or buying a home. For businesses, especially in industries that rely on complex electrical systems, we recommend annual inspections by a trusted industrial electrician.
In Oklahoma, electrical permits and inspections are regulated by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB), which oversees all licensed electricians and electrical work. Find more information about inspection requirements on their official site:
https://cib.ok.gov/electrical
Trust MetroTech Electric for Reliable Electrical Inspections
At MetroTech Electric, we’re proud to be Oklahoma’s go-to team for dependable electrical inspections. Whether you need a commercial electrician to inspect a retail space or an industrial electrician for your manufacturing facility, our licensed electricians bring the experience and skill needed to keep your building safe and compliant.
We don’t cut corners—and we don’t just look for quick fixes. We provide detailed assessments, honest recommendations, and timely service backed by industry standards and decades of experience in the field.
FAQ: Electrical Inspections in Oklahoma
Q: Do I need a permit for electrical inspections in Oklahoma?
A: In many cases, yes—especially for new installations or major renovations. Your licensed electrician helps pull the necessary permits.
Q: Am I able to inspect my electrical system?
A: While it’s possible to look for visible signs of damage, only a licensed electrician should perform full inspections because of safety and code compliance.
Q: How much does an electrical inspection cost?
A: Costs vary depending on the size and type of property. Contact MetroTech Electric for a customized quote.
Q: What happens if my system fails the inspection?
A: You'll receive a detailed report with repair recommendations. Our team helps fix the issues and schedule a reinspection if needed.
Q: Do electrical inspections help lower insurance premiums?
A: Yes! Having proof of a recent inspection sometimes qualifies you for better insurance rates by reducing risk factors.
If you’re due for an inspection or have concerns about your property’s electrical system, don’t wait. Contact MetroTech Electric today to schedule a visit with one of our trusted licensed electricians. Your safety—and your peace of mind—are worth it.
