Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling an office, or upgrading a commercial space, understanding the most common electrical code violations can save you from costly repairs, safety hazards, and failed inspections. At Tesdell Electric, we see these issues all the time—and we’re here to help you stay compliant and safe.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the right lighting for your business.
1. Improper Grounding / Bonding
The Violation: Many older systems or DIY jobs lack proper grounding and bonding. Without it, you risk electrical shock and equipment damage.
How to Avoid It: Always ensure a grounding path is installed and maintained correctly. Our electricians check for proper grounding and bonding during every installation, whether new or an upgrade.
2. Overfilled Electrical Boxes
The Violation: Cramming too many wires into a junction box causes overheating and short circuits.
How to Avoid It: Choose the correct box size for the number of wires, and let a licensed electrician determine capacity using code-based calculations.
3. Missing or Improper GFCI Protection
The Violation: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are required in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, outdoor areas, and more!. Missing them—or installing them incorrectly—is a major violation and safety risk!.
How to Avoid It: GFCI outlets must be installed where required by code. Our team ensures your system meets today’s National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
4. Insecure or Loose Wiring
The Violation: Loose connections can cause arcing, which may lead to fires.
How to Avoid It: Use proper connectors and proper torque for terminations.
5. Wrong Circuit Breaker Type
The Violation: Installing a breaker that isn’t compatible with your panel or your home’s wiring can cause shorts and fire risks.
How to Avoid It: Always use the type of breaker specified by the manufacturer. Tesdell’s electricians verify all components are listed for the purpose before installation.
6. Lack of AFCI Protection
The Violation: Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) are required in living rooms, bedrooms, and more, but many homes still don’t have them.
How to Avoid It: AFCIs protect against electrical fires from arcing. We upgrade older systems to include AFCI protection in required locations.
7. Exposed or Unsupported Wiring
The Violation: Wires that are exposed, dangling, or not secured properly can be a shock hazard.
How to Avoid It: Wiring must be secured to studs or enclosed in a conduit. Tesdell ensures all wiring is neatly routed and properly supported.
8. Lack of Permits or Inspections
The Violation: Skipping permits or inspections for electrical work—especially in remodels—can lead to major headaches during resale or insurance claims.
How to Avoid It: Always work with a licensed contractor like Tesdell who understands what permits are required and ensures everything is done by the book.
Trust Tesdell Electric to Keep You Code-Compliant
From residential upgrades to complex commercial systems, our team is here to make sure your wiring is safe, efficient, and fully up to code. Whether you’re in the middle of a project or want a quick inspection, we’ll help you avoid these common missteps and ensure peace of mind.
Have a new project or need an electrical upgrade? Contact Tesdell Electric today.