ToolNEC 2023 · 55 inspection items

Electrical Inspection Checklist Tool

Pass your inspection the first time. Select your project type below to get a complete checklist with NEC code references, common fail reasons, and severity ratings. The average first-pass fail rate is 15–40%. Use this checklist before the inspector arrives.
This checklist is a general reference, not a substitute for your local AHJ requirements. Inspection criteria vary by jurisdiction and inspector. Your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) may have additional requirements, amendments, or interpretations that differ from the base NEC. Always confirm requirements with your local building department before your inspection. NEC references shown are based on the 2023 edition; your jurisdiction may enforce a different edition.

Top 10 electrical inspection fail reasons

Based on aggregated inspection data, these are the most common reasons electrical inspections fail on the first pass:

#Fail ReasonLearn More
1Missing or non-functional GFCI protectionGuide
2Cable not properly secured (12" from box, 4.5' intervals)Guide
3Panel directory incomplete or illegibleGuide
4Box fill violationsGuide
5Missing AFCI protection in required areasGuide
6Undersized conductorsGuide
7Missing cover plates or open knockoutsGuide
8Working clearance violations at panelGuide
9Missing tamper-resistant receptaclesGuide
10Grounding system deficienciesGuide

Essential inspection prep tools

GFCI Outlet TesterTest all GFCI receptacles before the inspector doesCheck prices on Amazon (paid link)Circuit Breaker FinderMap every circuit for your panel directoryCheck prices on Amazon (paid link)NEC 2023 CodebookOfficial reference for code questions with inspectorsCheck prices on Amazon (paid link)

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Frequently asked questions

What is the average electrical inspection fail rate?

The average first-pass fail rate for residential electrical inspections is 15-40%, with a midpoint around 25%. The most common fail reason is missing or non-functional GFCI protection.

What should I check before an electrical rough-in inspection?

Key items include: box fill calculations (NEC 314.16), cable secured within 12 inches of every box (NEC 334.30), receptacle spacing (NEC 210.52), dedicated circuits for kitchen/bath/laundry/garage, and AFCI protection in required locations (NEC 210.12).

What NEC code section requires GFCI in kitchens?

NEC 210.8(A)(6) requires GFCI protection for all kitchen receptacles under NEC 2023. This includes the refrigerator outlet, which was a significant expansion from prior code editions.

Important: For reference only. Not a substitute for a licensed electrician. Electrical work can cause serious injury, death, fire, or property damage if performed incorrectly. Always hire a licensed electrician for electrical work, especially for service upgrades, panel work, and 240V circuits. Values are derived from NFPA 70 (NEC) for educational purposes. Always verify against your locally adopted NEC edition and amendments - local jurisdictions may enforce stricter requirements. WireRef provides reference information only and is not responsible for work performed based on this content. NEC® is a registered trademark of the National Fire Protection Association. Free NEC access via NFPA · OSHA Electrical Safety · Terms of use.

NEC 2023 references verified April 2026

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