What are the Fire Dangers of Faulty Wiring?

Replacing our home’s wiring is likely one of the lowest items on our home repair list. Why? Probably because we assume that everything must be OK. When we plug something in, it works, and when we flip the switch, the lights come on.

Before we put electrical repairs on the bottom of our list, though, consider this:

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, Fire Departments nationwide respond to approximately 25,900 home electrical fires per year. About 280 people die and 1,125 people are wounded in these fires, and roughly $1.1 billion in property damage occurs.

However, due to strict electrical standards, the work that certified electricians perform should safely last for many years. Many homeowners in the US, then, should feel safe, but how do you know when it is time to have electrical work done?