Do electrical inspectors in WA keep a detailed records of what homeowners have ?

Status
Not open for further replies.
C

curioiusv

Member
Location
98499
Occupation
Student
I am asking about L&I WA inspectors
Lets say we called an inspector 5 years ago because there was some electrical work done that required permit -

Now if we apply for permit and schedule inspection today - how will they know what we have changed or added /altered?

Do they keep detailed information on what we have in the electrical panel outside?
How many fixtures, outlets we have inside and where are those installed ? How is wiring inside the home?

What records do they keep from their prior visits ?
 
I can't give you a complete answer, as it is only one example. But this might help.

We lived in a 1940's house in Seattle for about 17 years. We had electrical work done three times, each under a permit and each getting an inspection by L&I. The first was a service panel "Zinsco" replacement, and other two were remodel projects. We also hired an electrician to replace an outdoor light fixture. That did not require a permit, so L&I knew nothing about it.

In preparation for selling the house, I went online and downloaded all three inspection reports, the only records that L&I had (or so I believe). All they mentioned was within the scope of the permits. They did not record any count or location of fixtures, appliances, or outlets. I was present at each inspection. None of the inspectors looked anywhere in the house beyond the project's work area.
 
Yes this was helpful. You said you went online - I guess you meant L&I website?
I went there but it says only 13 months period at a time.
Also only shows records from 2013 onwards ..our inspection was in 2009 or 2010 so how do I find that inspection report?
 
Just a limited viewpoint from a different state. I have pulled many permits for projects at my house. I have never provided a detailed list of the quantity of components on the permit and have never seen an inspector take notes unless they were issuing a violation. When I bought my current home the permit search also did not include details other than 'water heater' and 'kitchen lighting'.
 
Have you tried calling L&I?

Maybe things have changed. But my three projects were approximately in 2005, 2018, and 2020. I was able to download all three reports from the L&I website in 2022.
 
As an inspector I averaged 12 to 15 stops a day, times 5 days a week times 50 weeks a year, times 5 years.
Do the math. The chances of an inspector remembering minute details would be superhuman. JMHO

Ron
 
rc/retired said:
As an inspector I averaged 12 to 15 stops a day, times 5 days a week times 50 weeks a year, times 5 years.
Do the math. The chances of an inspector remembering minute details would be superhuman. JMHO

Ron
Click to expand...
Of course I understand - no one can remember those details but I was asking if they make some kind of file and input all details as to how many breakers were there and double pole or single pole ...how many light fixtures were there - how many outlets where there ...all in some kind of digital file ?
 
curioiusv said:
Of course I understand - no one can remember those details but I was asking if they make some kind of file and input all details as to how many breakers were there and double pole or single pole ...how many light fixtures were there - how many outlets where there ...all in some kind of digital file ?
Click to expand...
No. Way too much info.
As Charlie mentioned, just a record of what the permit shows.

Ron
 
And in WA, i believe a panel addition or alteration allow up to 6 new branch circuits. If you need more than that i think you add them on the permit. I have only done changes or alterations and never needed to add more than 6 new circuits. So a total circuit count is hopeless unless they make a note of it and I've never seen an inspector count breakers.
 
My experience in NY is the final inspection fee is based off of what is installed, ie how many receptacles, switches, ceiling fans etc. So yes, the numbers were captured on a written report that is filed somewhere.
 
Opie11 said:
My experience in NY is the final inspection fee is based off of what is installed, ie how many receptacles, switches, ceiling fans etc. So yes, the numbers were captured on a written report that is filed somewhere.
Click to expand...
In Seattle, you fill out the number of devices on the form so they probably have that, but I usually guess at the number, always make a few changes between rough and finish, and no one counts.
 
electrofelon said:
Basically no. I have never seen an inspector count devices. They just do not have time to make such notes.
Click to expand...
I work with a company that has it actually listed as a line item on the Application, it is also then recorded onto the Certificate of Inspection.
Issue is that if years have gone by or you call a different inspection agency they may not have or can't find any records.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top