Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

When most homebuyers walk through a property, they focus on the big picture: the curb appeal, the size of the kitchen, the layout of the living room, or the view from the backyard. Rarely does someone think about the electrical panel, yet in Florida, this small metal box tucked away in a garage, utility room, or exterior wall is one of THE most important components in a home. The electrical panel—sometimes called a breaker box, load center, or distribution panel—serves as the control hub for a home’s entire electrical system. It’s the traffic director that manages the flow of electricity from the utility company to every light switch, outlet, appliance, and device in the home. An inspection of this panel can reveal an incredible amount of information about the home’s safety, functionality, and even its history. Why the Electrical Panel Matters For homebuyers, the electrical panel might not be glamorous, but it is essential. A well-functioning panel ensures safe delivery of power, prote...

We often tell homebuyers that one of the most critical (yet overlooked) components in a home is the electrical panel. Tucked away in garages, laundry rooms, or closets, this metal box is the heart of a home’s electrical system—and when things go wrong, the results can be costly or even dangerous. With our  high humidity and frequent lightning storms the electrical system on a home may experience added stress and  a thorough inspection of the panel is not just recommended—it’s essential. Below we have included a few things that buyers should know and consider including electrical panel red flags, how to spot visible issues, and how thermal imaging and additional inspections can provide a full picture of a home’s safety and integrity. What Is an Electrical Panel? Also known as a breaker box, the electrical panel distributes power from the utility company to the various circuits throughout the home. Inside the panel, you’ll find circuit breakers or fuses that control different zo...