Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

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...

Finding aluminum wiring in a home you're considering purchasing can be cause for concern, but it's not necessarily a deal-breaker. Aluminum wiring was commonly used in homes built between the mid-1960s and early 1970s as a cost-effective alternative to copper. However, it was later discovered that aluminum wiring could pose significant safety risks, including the potential for overheating and electrical fires. Fortunately, several solutions can mitigate the risks associated with aluminum wiring. Below, we will look at a few of the options we have found that are available to you to help you make an informed decision.  1. Rewiring the Entire Home with Copper Wiring Positive changes: Safety: Replacing aluminum wiring with copper is the safest and most reliable solution. Copper wiring is less prone to overheating, and its connections are more stable over time, reducing the risk of electrical fires. Insurance Benefits: Many insurance companies view copper wiring as a lower risk, w...

One of our key responsibilities is to educate home buyers about potential issues they may encounter during the home buying process. One such concern is the presence of alumicon, which is something that could potentially impact the safety and value of a home. In this blog, we'll delve into what alumicon is, where it is commonly found, why it poses a problem, and what steps you can take if it's discovered in a home you're considering purchasing. What Is Alumicon? Alumicon is a term commonly used to describe the use of aluminum wiring in conjunction with copper pigtails and special connectors. This technique was often used as a solution for homes that originally had aluminum wiring installed, particularly in homes built between the mid-1960s and early 1970s. Aluminum wiring was initially favored because it was less expensive than copper, but it was later found to pose significant risks, leading to the development of alumicon as a corrective measure. Where Is Alumicon Found? Al...

Imagine this… you’ve just purchased your dream home. The excitement of moving in, decorating, and settling into a new life is overwhelming. But beneath the surface of your perfect home, a ticking time bomb is lurking—one you had no idea existed until it was too late. This may sound a bit dramatic to some, however it is the reality for many home buyers who unknowingly inherit recalled electrical panels, only to face severe consequences down the road. Think of This Scenario For many home buyers, the discovery of a recalled electrical panel happens only after they’ve moved in, unpacked, and begun to enjoy their new space. Perhaps a minor electrical issue prompts a visit from an electrician, or an insurance inspector notices something amiss during a routine check. It’s then that the buyer learns that the home’s electrical panel is not just old—it’s a recalled model known for its dangerous defects. Safety Risks and Electrical Hazards The first and most pressing issue is the safety risk. Rec...