When homeowners think about safety hazards inside their homes, they often picture slippery floors, loose railings, or fire risks from cooking. What many don't realize is that some of the most dangerous issues are hidden in the walls or ceilings—specifically involving electrical wiring. Improperly installed electrical service lines can create severe risks, especially when they run dangerously close to water sources like showers and bathtubs.
During a recent inspection, Certified Inspector Britt B. identified a main service line running directly over a shower. This is far more than a minor concern—it is an electrical safety hazard that requires immediate attention. At LunsPro Inspection Group, we understand how critical it is to identify and report hazards like these during Georgia home inspections. For residents in Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens, our Residential and Commercial Inspections provide peace of mind by ensuring electrical systems are not just functional but safe.
Why Electricity and Water Are a Dangerous Combination
It's common knowledge that electricity and water don't mix, but the risks are worth emphasizing when it comes to home safety. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, meaning that any fault in wiring or insulation can turn a shower, bathtub, or sink area into a deadly hazard.
Potential risks include:
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Electrocution: A fault in wiring near water could cause severe injury or even death.
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Fire Hazards: Improperly placed service lines may spark or overheat, igniting nearby materials.
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System Overloads: Water intrusion into electrical lines may short out circuits, damaging appliances and increasing fire risks.
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Code Violations: Electrical lines over showers are direct violations of building codes designed to protect homeowners.
When issues like these are uncovered during Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens Residential and Commercial Inspections, immediate remediation is strongly recommended.
How Inspectors Identify Electrical Hazards
Certified inspectors are trained to evaluate more than just visible outlets and switches—they review the entire electrical system for compliance and safety.
Inspection steps include:
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Identifying the location of service lines and wiring relative to plumbing and wet areas.
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Checking for improper routing of electrical conductors over or near showers, bathtubs, and sinks.
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Evaluating whether proper clearance and insulation are in place.
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Confirming compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local Georgia building standards.
At LunsPro Inspection Group, our detailed inspections go beyond functionality. We look for hazards that may not yet be causing problems but could create major risks if ignored.
Common Electrical Hazards Found in Homes
In addition to misplaced service lines, inspectors often encounter other electrical concerns during Georgia home inspections:
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Overloaded Circuits: Too many appliances or devices on one circuit create fire risks.
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Improper Grounding: Lack of proper grounding leaves systems vulnerable to surges and electrocution.
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Outdated Wiring: Aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring still present in some older homes is unsafe.
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Exposed Wiring: Insulation breakdown or improper installation leaves conductors unprotected.
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Non-GFCI Outlets Near Water: Kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor outlets without ground-fault protection are dangerous.
Each of these issues requires professional evaluation and correction to protect occupants and property.
The Importance of Electrical Code Compliance
Electrical codes exist for a reason—they're designed to protect life and property. In Georgia, as in most states, the National Electrical Code (NEC) provides strict guidelines on where and how service lines may be routed.
Relevant requirements include:
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Electrical lines should never run directly over or near showers or tubs.
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Service panels must maintain clear working space and not be located in bathrooms.
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GFCI outlets must be installed in all wet or damp locations.
When inspectors identify violations during Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens Residential and Commercial Inspections, they document them clearly so homeowners can take corrective action quickly.
Risks for Commercial Properties
Electrical hazards aren't limited to residential homes. Commercial buildings often face unique risks due to heavier electrical loads and more complex systems.
Examples of commercial hazards include:
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Service lines improperly installed in restrooms or break areas.
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Overloaded panels in office buildings or retail spaces.
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Inadequate grounding in older commercial properties.
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DIY electrical work performed without permits.
For business owners, these hazards not only threaten safety but can also lead to costly downtime, code violations, and liability concerns. That's why Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens Commercial Inspections are just as critical as residential evaluations.
How Electrical Hazards Impact Property Value
When buying or selling a home, electrical hazards are red flags that can stall or derail a transaction. Buyers are wary of taking on properties with safety concerns, and lenders may require repairs before approving financing.
Sellers who address these issues proactively protect their property's value and improve buyer confidence. At LunsPro Inspection Group, we've seen how identifying and resolving electrical hazards early leads to smoother transactions and stronger offers.
Why Choose LunsPro Inspection Group
At LunsPro Inspection Group, we take electrical safety seriously. Our certified inspectors are trained to spot hazards like misplaced service lines—issues that may be overlooked by untrained eyes. By documenting these risks clearly, we give homeowners and business owners the information they need to take corrective action.
Serving clients throughout Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens, our Georgia home inspections and Residential and Commercial Inspections provide more than just a checklist—they deliver peace of mind. From outlets to service panels, our team ensures your electrical system meets modern safety standards.
Protecting Your Family and Property
Electrical hazards are some of the most dangerous issues a property can have, and misplaced service lines near showers are among the most severe. While they may not cause problems immediately, the risks of electrocution or fire are too great to ignore. Catching these hazards through professional inspections is one of the most important steps homeowners can take to protect their families.
For residents of Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens, scheduling an inspection with LunsPro Inspection Group ensures that electrical systems are thoroughly evaluated for safety and compliance. Our certified inspectors provide detailed reports that highlight risks and give you the knowledge needed to act quickly.
Don't wait for a dangerous situation to reveal itself. Schedule your Georgia home inspection with LunsPro Inspection Group today, and take control of your property's electrical safety.