One of the most common questions we get during 4-point inspections is: “Why do you have to open the electrical panel?”
The answer is simple—because it’s the only way to spot serious, hidden issues that could put your home and family at risk.
Here’s a real-life example from an inspection this week in Vero Beach, Florida.
What We Found
During a routine inspection, we removed the electrical panel cover and found a scorched main lug on the right side. This is where the main power from the utility company enters the home.
The damage wasn’t visible from the outside, and the homeowner had no idea it was even there. If we hadn’t removed the panel cover, this issue would have gone undetected—and could have led to a house fire.
We took a photo of the issue and texted it to the homeowner so they could show it to a licensed electrician. Then it was documented in the report.
What Happens Next
We consulted with Jim at our office (a retired electrician), and he confirmed: this was a serious problem, and the next step was to bring in a professional electrician right away. Having a licensed electrician evaluate the system, and determine if a repair can be made, or if the entire panel needs to be replaced is the right call. Most insurance companies will accept an invoice from a licensed electrician as proof or repair. So I advised my client to keep all relevant documentation for their records.
Why This Matters
The Florida 4-point inspection form requires a photo of the interior of the electrical panel. And there’s a good reason for it—this kind of inspection is designed to help insurance companies (and homeowners) catch major issues before they cause damage.
Takeaway for Homeowners
If you’re getting a 4-point inspection and wonder why we’re opening the panel—this is why. It’s a safety check that could save you thousands, and more importantly, protect your home. This is also why when you book an appointment with our company, we explain that we need clear access to the electrical panel. We ask that personal items be removed before the inspection, this makes our job safe and fast, and your life easier. In this case, we were able to identify a hazard, that if left alone, could cause a house fire. We want our clients to have a happy and healthy home! Sometimes that means having tough conversations about systems that need work.
Serving Homeowners in Indian River County
We provide 4-point inspections across Vero Beach, Sebastian, Fellsmere, and surrounding areas. Our inspections are detailed, professional, and focused on keeping you informed.
Final Thoughts
Not every inspection turns up something dangerous—but when it does, it’s good to know your inspector has your back.
This is just one of the many reasons experience matters when hiring a home inspector.