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. 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
Common reasons electrical inspections fail on the first pass:
| # | Fail Reason | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Missing or non-functional GFCI protection | Guide |
| 2 | Cable not properly secured (12" from box, 4.5' intervals) | Guide |
| 3 | Panel directory incomplete or illegible | Guide |
| 4 | Box fill violations | Guide |
| 5 | Missing AFCI protection in required areas | Guide |
| 6 | Undersized conductors | Guide |
| 7 | Missing cover plates or open knockouts | Guide |
| 8 | Working clearance violations at panel | Guide |
| 9 | Missing tamper-resistant receptacles | Guide |
| 10 | Grounding system deficiencies | Guide |
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 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.