Passing Electrical Inspection: Common Failures and How to Fix Them
Introduction
Electrical inspections are a critical step in any residential or commercial electrical project in Los Angeles. Whether you're installing new circuits, upgrading your electrical panel, adding EV chargers, or remodeling your property, passing electrical inspection is not just a bureaucratic requirement—it's a fundamental safety measure that protects your property, your family, and future occupants from electrical hazards. Yet many property owners and even some contractors face inspection failures that result in costly delays, reinspection fees, and frustration.
Understanding what electrical inspectors look for, the most common reasons for inspection failures, and how to prepare properly can save you significant time and money. At Shaffer Construction, Inc., we've completed thousands of electrical inspections throughout Los Angeles with a first-time pass rate exceeding 95%. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share the insider knowledge that helps us—and can help you—pass electrical inspections the first time, every time.
Why Passing Electrical Inspection Matters
Electrical inspections serve multiple critical purposes beyond simple regulatory compliance. First and foremost, they verify that electrical work meets the National Electrical Code (NEC) and California's Title 24 electrical requirements, which are designed to prevent fires, electrocution, and other electrical hazards. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical failures or malfunctions caused an estimated 13% of home structure fires between 2015-2019, resulting in hundreds of deaths and billions in property damage annually.
Beyond safety, passing inspection is legally required before you can obtain a certificate of occupancy, sell your property, or have your electrical service activated or upgraded. Failed inspections delay project completion, extend contractor timelines, and can invalidate your homeowner's insurance if undisclosed electrical work is discovered. For commercial properties, failed inspections can delay business openings, resulting in lost revenue and lease complications.
Perhaps most importantly, proper electrical inspections protect future property owners. When you sell your Los Angeles property, undisclosed electrical work or unpermitted modifications can create serious legal liability. Buyers increasingly request electrical inspection reports, and unpermitted work discovered during escrow can derail transactions or force expensive concessions. Working with licensed contractors who obtain proper permits and pass inspections protects your investment and gives buyers confidence in your property's electrical safety.
Types of Electrical Inspections in Los Angeles
Understanding the different types of electrical inspections helps you prepare appropriately and know what inspectors will be examining during their visit. The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) requires different inspections depending on the scope and stage of electrical work.
Rough-In Inspection (Before Drywall)
The rough-in inspection occurs after electrical wiring, boxes, and conduit are installed but before walls are closed with drywall or other finishes. This is arguably the most critical inspection because once walls are closed, inspectors cannot verify proper wire routing, box installation, stapling intervals, or conduit connections. During rough-in inspection, inspectors examine wire sizes, circuit routing, box positioning and securing, grounding and bonding connections, proper stapling and support of cables, and clearances around electrical equipment.
Many contractors mistakenly rush to close walls before scheduling rough-in inspection, creating expensive problems when inspectors require walls to be reopened to verify concealed work. Always schedule and pass rough-in inspection before installing drywall, insulation, or other wall coverings.
Final Inspection (After Completion)
Final inspection occurs after all electrical work is complete, including installation of devices (outlets, switches, fixtures), panel labeling, and final connections. Inspectors verify that all rough-in items remain compliant, devices are properly installed and functional, circuits are correctly terminated in the panel, GFCI and AFCI protection is installed where required, proper clearances around panels and equipment are maintained, and all work matches the approved permit drawings.
Final inspection is your last opportunity to address any issues before the permit is closed and approved. Inspectors are generally more strict during final inspection because they expect all work to be complete and fully code-compliant.
Service Inspection (Main Electrical Service)
Service inspections apply to new electrical service installations or main service upgrades (replacing your meter panel or upgrading from 100-amp to 200-amp service, for example). These inspections are particularly thorough because the service entrance is the most critical safety component of your entire electrical system. Inspectors examine the service entrance conductor sizing, meter base installation and grounding, main disconnect location and accessibility, proper grounding electrode system (ground rods, Ufer ground, etc.), and utility clearances.
Service inspections often require coordination with your utility company (LADWP, SCE, or others), as they must disconnect and reconnect power during the upgrade process.
Temporary Power Inspection
Construction sites and major renovations often require temporary electrical service to power tools and equipment during the project. Temporary power installations require their own inspection to ensure construction worker safety. These inspections verify proper temporary panel installation, GFCI protection on all temporary circuits, proper grounding, and adequate overcurrent protection.
What Electrical Inspectors Look for During Inspections
Understanding the inspector's priorities helps you prepare effectively and avoid common pitfalls. LADBS electrical inspectors evaluate five primary areas during every inspection.
Code Compliance
Inspectors verify that all work complies with the current National Electrical Code (NEC) and California Title 24 requirements. This includes wire sizing for circuit amperage, GFCI and AFCI protection in required locations, proper outlet spacing (maximum 12 feet apart in habitable rooms), dedicated circuits for appliances, proper box fill calculations, and grounding requirements. For more on California-specific requirements, see our guide on California Title 24 electrical requirements for renovations.
Workmanship Quality
Beyond code compliance, inspectors evaluate the quality and professionalism of installation. Poor workmanship, even if technically code-compliant, can result in inspection failure. Inspectors look for neat wire terminations without excessive exposed copper, proper wire stripping (not nicked or damaged), secure connections (no loose terminals), appropriate use of wire connectors, organized panel wiring, and professional cable routing and support.
Safety Issues
Inspectors prioritize anything that creates immediate safety hazards, including exposed live conductors, improper grounding or bonding, overloaded circuits or panels, combustible materials near electrical equipment, and inadequate working clearances. Safety violations almost always result in immediate inspection failure and must be corrected before reinspection.
Proper Labeling
Accurate panel labeling is required by code and frequently overlooked by DIY installers and some contractors. Every circuit breaker must be clearly labeled indicating what it controls ("Kitchen Outlets," "Master Bedroom," etc.). Generic labels like "Lights" or "Outlets" are insufficient. Main disconnects must be clearly labeled, and GFCI and AFCI breakers must be identified.
Correct Materials
Inspectors verify that all materials are approved for their application and properly rated. This includes using copper wire unless aluminum is properly specified and connected, NM-B cable (Romex) rated for the environment, properly rated circuit breakers that match the panel manufacturer, approved junction boxes and enclosures, and correct conduit types for location (EMT, PVC, rigid, etc.).
Common Electrical Inspection Failures and Solutions
After reviewing thousands of inspection reports and working with Los Angeles inspectors for over two decades, we've identified the most common inspection failures and how to fix them.
Missing GFCI/AFCI Protection
The Problem: This is the single most common inspection failure in Los Angeles. Current NEC requirements mandate GFCI protection in bathrooms, kitchens (countertop outlets), garages, outdoors, unfinished basements, crawl spaces, and within 6 feet of sinks. AFCI protection is required for most habitable room circuits including bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, and hallways.
The Solution: Install combination AFCI/GFCI circuit breakers for bedroom and living area circuits. Install GFCI circuit breakers or GFCI outlets for kitchen, bathroom, garage, and outdoor circuits. Test all GFCI and AFCI devices before inspection to ensure they trip properly. Many inspectors will test devices during inspection, and non-functional protection results in immediate failure.
Improper Wire Sizing
The Problem: Using wire that's too small for the circuit amperage creates fire hazards and code violations. Common examples include 14-gauge wire on 20-amp circuits (requires 12-gauge minimum), 12-gauge wire on 30-amp circuits (requires 10-gauge minimum), or undersized wire for long circuit runs that experience voltage drop.
The Solution: Replace all undersized wire with the correct gauge before rough-in inspection. Use 14-gauge copper minimum for 15-amp circuits, 12-gauge copper minimum for 20-amp circuits, and 10-gauge copper minimum for 30-amp circuits. For circuits longer than 100 feet, perform voltage drop calculations to determine if larger wire is needed.
Overfilled Junction Boxes
The Problem: NEC Article 314.16 specifies maximum box fill based on wire gauge and number of devices. Cramming too many wires into a box creates connection difficulties, heat buildup, and potential fire hazards. Inspectors will fail boxes that are visibly overstuffed or where wire connections are compressed.
The Solution: Use larger junction boxes when connecting multiple circuits. A standard 4-inch square box with 2-1/8 inch depth can accommodate approximately six 12-gauge wires plus devices. If you need more capacity, use 4-11/16 inch square boxes or double-gang boxes. When in doubt, box fill calculations should be performed before installation.
Missing Wire Connectors or Improper Splices
The Problem: All wire splices must be made inside approved junction boxes using proper wire connectors (wire nuts, Wago connectors, etc.). Inspectors frequently discover taped splices, connections outside of boxes, or improperly sized wire connectors that don't fully cover exposed copper.
The Solution: Install all splices inside accessible junction boxes with approved covers. Use appropriately sized wire connectors rated for the number and gauge of wires being connected. Ensure no bare copper is visible below the wire connector. All junction boxes must remain accessible—never bury boxes behind drywall or ceilings.
Exposed Wire or Incomplete Work
The Problem: Inspectors expect all work to be complete before final inspection. Common incomplete items include missing cover plates on outlets and switches, exposed wire ends not properly terminated or capped, missing junction box covers, incomplete fixture installations, and unfinished panel connections.
The Solution: Complete all work before calling for final inspection. Install all cover plates, properly terminate or cap all wire ends with wire connectors, install all junction box covers, complete all fixture installations, and ensure every circuit is fully terminated in the panel.
Incorrect Circuit Breaker Sizing
The Problem: Circuit breakers must match the wire gauge, not the appliance rating. A common mistake is installing a 30-amp breaker on 12-gauge wire because the appliance requires 30 amps. This creates a serious fire hazard because the breaker won't trip before the wire overheats.
The Solution: Match circuit breakers to wire gauge: 15-amp maximum for 14-gauge wire, 20-amp maximum for 12-gauge wire, and 30-amp maximum for 10-gauge wire. If an appliance requires more current than the wire gauge allows, you must install larger wire, not a larger breaker.
Poor Grounding and Bonding
The Problem: Proper grounding and bonding is essential for safety but frequently done incorrectly. Common grounding failures include missing grounding electrode system (ground rods), improper bonding of metal water pipes and gas lines, missing equipment grounding in circuits, and improper grounding of metal boxes and devices.
The Solution: Install proper grounding electrode system with at least two ground rods or a Ufer ground (concrete-encased electrode). Bond all metal water pipes and gas lines within 5 feet of entry. Ensure all circuits include equipment grounding conductor. Ground all metal boxes and devices using ground screws or grounding pigtails.
Improper Panel Labeling
The Problem: Generic or missing circuit labels fail to meet code requirements. Labels must clearly identify what each circuit controls in specific, understandable terms.
The Solution: Create detailed, specific labels for every circuit: "Kitchen North Wall Outlets," "Master Bedroom Lights and Ceiling Fan," "Garage Door Opener and Outlets," etc. Use a label maker or write clearly in permanent marker. Test each circuit to verify labels are accurate before inspection.
Clearance Violations Around Electrical Panels
The Problem: NEC requires 36 inches of clear space in front of electrical panels, 30 inches wide, and 78 inches high. Inspectors strictly enforce this requirement, and items stored in front of panels, shelving that blocks access, or panels installed in closets with insufficient clearance all result in immediate failure.
The Solution: Ensure full 36-inch clearance in front of all panels before final inspection. Remove any stored items, shelving, or furniture that encroaches on the clearance zone. If the panel was installed in a location with insufficient clearance, it may need to be relocated—an expensive fix that emphasizes the importance of proper initial planning.
Outlet Spacing Violations
The Problem: NEC requires outlets spaced no more than 12 feet apart along walls in habitable rooms, with no point along the wall more than 6 feet from an outlet. Kitchen countertops require outlets every 4 feet. These requirements prevent the use of extension cords, which create fire hazards.
The Solution: Add additional outlets to meet spacing requirements. Measure walls and countertops before scheduling final inspection. For kitchen remodels, plan outlet locations carefully during the design phase to ensure code compliance without having to add outlets later.
Wrong Height for Outlets and Switches
The Problem: While NEC doesn't specify exact heights for most outlets and switches, accessibility requirements (ICC/ANSI A117.1) recommend 15-48 inches for outlets and 48 inches maximum for switches in accessible spaces. Bathrooms, kitchens, and commercial spaces have additional requirements. Extremely low or high installations may be questioned by inspectors.
The Solution: Follow standard industry practice: 12-18 inches above floor for standard outlets, 42-48 inches above floor for switches, bathroom GFCI outlets above countertop height, and kitchen countertop outlets 42-48 inches above floor (just above countertop). For commercial work, review commercial electrical code compliance requirements specific to Los Angeles.
Missing Permits or Documentation
The Problem: Performing electrical work without proper permits, or being unable to produce permit documentation during inspection, results in immediate failure and can require expensive retroactive permitting processes.
The Solution: Always obtain proper electrical permits before beginning work. Keep permit documentation visible and accessible during inspection. If unpermitted work is discovered, stop work immediately and apply for permits before proceeding. Attempting to hide unpermitted work from inspectors can result in red tags, stop-work orders, and mandatory removal of all work.
Preparing for Electrical Inspection: Best Practices
Proper preparation dramatically increases your chances of passing inspection the first time. Follow these best practices before the inspector arrives.
Clean the Work Area
Inspectors need clear access to all electrical work. Remove construction debris, tools, and materials from the work area. Clean panels so all terminations are clearly visible. Ensure the path to the inspection area is clear and safe. A clean, organized workspace creates a positive impression and allows the inspector to work efficiently.
Have Permits Visible and Accessible
Post the electrical permit in a visible location near the work area or on a window facing the street. Have a copy available to show the inspector if needed. Ensure the permit number matches the work being inspected—inspectors cannot approve work that doesn't match the permit scope.
Create Accurate Panel Directory
Before final inspection, create a detailed, accurate panel directory. Test each circuit to verify what it controls. Write clear, specific labels. Consider using a professional label maker for a polished appearance. Take a photo of the panel directory for your records.
Test All Circuits and Protection Devices
Before calling for inspection, test every circuit to ensure it works properly. Test all GFCI and AFCI devices using their test buttons. Verify that outlets are wired correctly (use a plug tester to confirm proper polarity and grounding). Test all switches and verify they control the intended lights or devices. Many inspection failures could be avoided by simply testing before the inspector arrives.
Take Photos for Your Records
Photograph all electrical work before walls are closed and before final inspection. These photos serve as documentation for insurance purposes, future renovations, and resolving any disputes about completed work. Photos also help you explain your installation to inspectors if questions arise.
The Reinspection Process After Failure
If your electrical inspection fails, don't panic—reinspections are common and straightforward if you address the issues promptly and correctly. The inspector will provide a written correction notice listing all deficiencies that must be corrected before reinspection. Read this notice carefully and address every item listed—inspectors will check for all previously noted violations during reinspection.
Make all required corrections before scheduling reinspection. Don't attempt to hide or explain away violations; simply fix them. Schedule reinspection through the LADBS website or by phone, providing your original permit number. The reinspection fee in Los Angeles is typically $75-150 depending on the scope of work. Most important: don't make additional changes or perform new work between failed inspection and reinspection. Stick to correcting the specific violations noted. Adding new work can trigger additional inspection requirements and further delays.
Costs of Failed Electrical Inspections
Failed inspections carry both direct and indirect costs that property owners should understand. Direct costs include reinspection fees ($75-150 per reinspection in Los Angeles), contractor callback fees if you're paying a contractor to return and make corrections ($200-500 or more), and materials costs for replacement parts or additional equipment needed to correct violations ($50-1000+ depending on the issue).
Indirect costs often exceed direct fees. Project delays push back occupancy dates, renovation completion, or business openings. Contractors may charge daily or weekly rates during delays. For commercial projects, delayed business openings result in lost revenue. For residential projects, you may be paying rent in two locations while waiting for occupancy approval. In the worst cases, serious violations can result in stop-work orders, mandatory removal of completed work, or red tags that prevent property occupancy or sale until violations are corrected.
Working with experienced, licensed contractors who consistently pass inspections the first time avoids these costs entirely and keeps your project on schedule.
Working with Electrical Inspectors: Professional Communication
Electrical inspectors are not your adversaries—they're safety professionals ensuring your electrical work protects lives and property. Treating inspectors with respect and professionalism goes a long way toward successful inspections.
Be present or have your contractor present during inspections whenever possible. This allows you to ask questions and understand any concerns the inspector raises. Be respectful and professional in all interactions. Inspectors respond better to courtesy than confrontation. If the inspector identifies violations, listen carefully and take notes. Don't argue about code interpretations during inspection—save technical discussions for after the inspection or request a formal code interpretation from the building department.
If you disagree with an inspector's determination, you can request a supervisor review or appeal to the Board of Appeals, but these processes take time and should be reserved for legitimate code interpretation disputes, not attempts to avoid valid safety requirements. In most cases, it's faster and cheaper to simply correct the identified violations and move forward.
Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor
While some simple electrical work can be performed by handy property owners with proper permits, complex electrical installations and renovations benefit enormously from hiring licensed electrical contractors. Licensed contractors know current code requirements, understand local inspector expectations, have established relationships with inspectors, and routinely pass inspections the first time.
Professional contractors carry liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance, protecting you from liability if accidents occur. They pull proper permits and manage the inspection process, saving you time and ensuring compliance. Their work is guaranteed, and they return to correct any inspection failures at no additional charge. Perhaps most important, licensed contractors ensure your electrical work is safe, reliable, and code-compliant—protecting your property value and the safety of everyone who occupies the building.
At Shaffer Construction, Inc., we've completed thousands of electrical inspections throughout Los Angeles with industry-leading pass rates. Our electricians stay current on NEC and California Title 24 requirements through ongoing training. We know what Los Angeles inspectors expect and how to exceed those standards. When you hire Shaffer Construction for electrical work, you're hiring a team that takes pride in first-time inspection passes and professional, code-compliant installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an electrical inspection take?
Most residential electrical inspections take 30-60 minutes depending on the scope of work. Small projects like adding a single circuit may take 15-20 minutes. Large projects like whole-house rewires or service upgrades may take 1-2 hours. Inspectors typically provide same-day or next-day results in Los Angeles.
Can I do my own electrical work and have it inspected?
Yes, California allows property owners to perform electrical work on their own single-family residences with proper permits. However, owner-performed work receives the same scrutiny as contractor work and must meet all code requirements. Many inspectors are more thorough when inspecting owner-performed work due to higher rates of violations. If you're not confident in your electrical knowledge, hiring a licensed contractor is safer and often more cost-effective.
What happens if I did electrical work without a permit?
Unpermitted electrical work creates serious problems. If discovered during a home sale, unpermitted work can delay or cancel the transaction. Inspectors who discover unpermitted work during other inspections will issue violations requiring you to obtain retroactive permits, expose all work for inspection, and potentially remove and redo work that can't be verified as code-compliant. Homeowner's insurance may deny claims related to unpermitted electrical work. Always obtain proper permits before beginning electrical work.
How much does an electrical permit cost in Los Angeles?
Electrical permit costs in Los Angeles vary based on project scope but typically range from $75-300 for residential work. Simple circuits or outlet additions cost $75-150. Panel upgrades or service changes cost $150-300. Large projects like whole-house rewires may cost $300-500. Commercial permits are calculated based on project valuation. Permit fees are a small fraction of project costs and provide essential protection and documentation.
What is the difference between rough-in and final inspection?
Rough-in inspection occurs before walls are closed and verifies wire routing, box installation, and concealed connections. Final inspection occurs after all work is complete and verifies devices, fixtures, panel labeling, and overall code compliance. Both inspections are typically required for projects involving new circuits or concealed wiring.
Can failed inspections affect my home insurance?
Yes, failed electrical inspections or unpermitted electrical work can affect homeowner's insurance. Some insurers require proof of permit closure before issuing policies on recently renovated properties. Insurance companies may deny claims related to electrical fires if inspectors determine that unpermitted or non-code-compliant electrical work caused the fire. Always complete permitted work through final inspection approval.
How long do I have to correct violations after a failed inspection?
Los Angeles typically allows 30-90 days to correct violations and schedule reinspection, but this varies by project and violation type. Serious safety violations may require immediate correction. Check your correction notice for specific deadlines and contact the inspector or building department if you need more time due to material availability or contractor scheduling.
Do I need to be present during the electrical inspection?
You're not required to be present, but it's highly recommended. Being present allows you to ask questions, understand any violations, and demonstrate the work to the inspector if needed. If you can't be present, ensure your contractor is available and that access to all electrical work areas is clear and unlocked.
Conclusion
Passing electrical inspection is a critical milestone in any Los Angeles electrical project, protecting your safety, property value, and legal compliance. Understanding what inspectors look for, avoiding common failures, and preparing thoroughly dramatically increases your chances of first-time approval and keeps your project on schedule. The most common inspection failures—missing GFCI/AFCI protection, improper wire sizing, overfilled boxes, poor grounding, and inadequate panel clearances—are all preventable with proper planning and attention to code requirements.
While skilled DIY property owners can successfully navigate the inspection process with proper permits and preparation, working with licensed electrical contractors like Shaffer Construction, Inc. provides peace of mind and professional results. Our decades of experience in Los Angeles mean we know exactly what inspectors expect and how to exceed those standards. We handle permitting, installation, and inspections from start to finish, ensuring your project passes the first time and meets the highest safety standards.
Whether you're planning a minor electrical addition, major renovation, panel upgrade, or commercial electrical installation, Shaffer Construction delivers code-compliant, inspection-ready work throughout Los Angeles. Call us at 323-642-8509 to discuss your electrical project and schedule a free consultation, or email hello@shaffercon.com for more information. Visit shaffercon.com to learn more about our comprehensive electrical services, including residential and commercial electrical installations, panel upgrades, EV charger installations, and electrical safety inspections. Our office is located at 325 N Larchmont Blvd. #202, Los Angeles, CA 90004. Let us help you pass your electrical inspection the first time and ensure your electrical work is safe, compliant, and built to last.