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Some inspection red flags include outdated wiring and low voltage. These problems with your electrical setup can increase the risk of a home fire. If there's a serious issue with your electrical system, your electrician may have to install new electrical wiring or a new electrical panel. New electrical wiring or panels cost about $550 to $2,200, depending on how much work is necessary.

You should get an electrical inspection to ensure the safety of your home and your family. An electrical inspection may not be your first concern when buying or renovating a house. But making sure your system is up to date and properly functioning is one of the best ways to prevent electrical malfunctions and ensure your home is as safe as possible. The cost to rewire a house is less than the cost of replacing it.

To prepare for an electrical inspection and ensure it goes as smoothly as possible, do the following:

• Make a note of any questions or concerns you’d like to raise with the electrician.

• Write down any electrical problems or malfunctions with your circuits, lighting, outlets, or appliances.

• Ask the electrician which areas they’ll need to access and make sure they have access before the home visit.

During an electrical inspection, your electrician will follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) to ensure your home is safe and protected against electrical fires and other dangers per the legal safety standards. They will inspect your electrical system, wires, appliances, meter box, panel, circuit breakers, and more.

Once they complete the inspection, you'll receive a detailed checklist of everything they checked, plus a report with photo evidence of the most urgent issues. The report may also include advice on how to save energy.

An electrical inspection itself may take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, but how long it takes will depend on the size and condition of your home. 

Once you call an electrician, you should be able to schedule an inspection within the next couple of weeks. If you have potentially dangerous electrical problems that constitute an emergency situation, the electrician may be able to prioritize your inspection.