According to InterNACHI's SOP, what is a home inspector required to test?

A home inspector is required to test a representative number of receptacles, which ensures that the evaluation of the electrical system is both effective and informative. This standard is in place to help inspectors assess the overall condition of the electrical system without necessitating that every single outlet be checked, which may not be practical or feasible in a typical inspection. By testing a representative sample of receptacles, inspectors can draw conclusions about the system's functionality and safety.

Testing a representative number of receptacles allows inspectors to identify potential issues such as improper wiring or malfunctioning outlets while recognizing that the presence of some functioning outlets can indicate a generally sound electrical system. This practice ensures that the reporting remains relevant to the overall home inspection while adhering to safety and regulatory standards outlined by InterNACHI's Standards of Practice.

In assessing receptacles, an inspector may choose to focus on various types of receptacles, including those used for appliances, electronics, and safety devices, while still fulfilling their responsibility to represent the complete system accurately.