Skip to main content

Blogs

850-575-3201

Lighting Upgrades

What are the Best Lighting Upgrades to Add Value to My Home?

Key Takeaways: 

  • Modern lighting upgrades boost both home value and comfort, making spaces feel brighter, safer, and more functional for everyday living.
  • LED lighting upgrades is one of the highest-value, using at least 75% less energy and lasting up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
  • Exterior and landscape lighting enhance curb appeal and improve nighttime safety, two major selling points for Tallahassee properties.
  • Indoor upgrades like recessed lights, smart dimmers, and accent lighting make rooms more versatile and attractive to today’s buyers.
  • Professional installation means compliance with Florida safety codes and helps homeowners get the most from each lighting investment.

Continue reading

electric repair

Handyman vs. Licensed Electrician: Who to Hire for Electric Repair?

Key Takeaways: 

  • A handyman can handle simple home repairs, but electrical work requires specialized training.
  • Licensed electricians are qualified to work safely with wiring, circuits, and electrical panels.
  • Improper electrical repairs can lead to fire hazards, insurance issues, and expensive damage.
  • Hiring a certified electrician protects your home, family, and investments.

When something goes wrong with your Florida home’s electrical system (flickering lights, tripping breakers, or outlets that stop working), you might think calling a local handyman could save time and money. 

However, residential electrical repairs are not like patching drywall or fixing a leaky faucet. They carry much higher risks, require detailed knowledge, and must follow strict safety standards.

In fact, contact with electricity is one of the leading causes of fatalities in American workplaces, with more than 150 deaths occurring every year (Electrical Safety Foundation International). This goes to show how dangerous and serious electrical repairs can be.

Don’t leave your home or personal safety to chance. Here’s how hiring a licensed electrician compares to hiring a generic handyman, and why the difference matters for your family and home’s long-term safety.

What a Handyman Can (and Can’t) Do

A handyman is skilled in general home repairs, making them a convenient choice for smaller jobs like fixing doors, hanging shelves, or replacing fixtures. Some may even claim they can handle minor electrical work, such as changing light switches or installing a ceiling fan.

However, without an electrician’s license, a handyman is not legally permitted to perform most electrical work in Florida. They often lack the specialized training required to handle wiring safely, identify grounding issues, or recognize potential hazards inside an electrical panel.

The Risks of Hiring a Handyman for Electrical Repairs

Hiring a handyman for electrical work can introduce serious safety concerns that shouldn’t be ignored. 

For instance, incorrect wiring or overloaded circuits can spark electrical fires or cause shock hazards. Every year, an estimated 51,000 home electrical fires occur, resulting in nearly 500 deaths, more than 1,400 injuries, and $1.3 billion in property damage. Many of these are the result of DIY electrical work or unqualified repairs. 

Unlicensed repairs also tend to break code. Without proper certification, the work often fails to meet local or national electrical standards.

There’s also the issue of insurance coverage. Many homeowners’ policies won’t cover damage or loss if unlicensed electrical work is found to be the cause.

Finally, what looks like a quick fix can turn into costly rework. You may end up hiring a certified electrician later to correct unsafe or incomplete repairs, paying twice for the same job.

Why Licensed Electricians Are the Safer Choice

A licensed electrician has completed years of education, hands-on apprenticeships, and testing to prove their expertise. Here in Florida, it can easily take five years, and students must complete around 8,000 hours of work experience and 144 hours of classroom instruction each year.

As a result, these professionals understand the technical side of electrical systems: how power flows, how circuits are balanced, and how to identify risks before they turn into fires or outages.

What You Get with a Licensed Electrician

A licensed electrician brings specialized training and experience to every project. Certified professionals are well-versed in wiring methods, grounding, and fault protection, helping prevent hazards before they occur.

Every repair or installation complies with current electrical codes, ensuring your home meets the latest safety and reliability standards. Professional electricians also use the proper tools and diagnostic equipment to identify problems and fix them correctly the first time accurately.

Because the work is covered by licensing and insurance, you’re protected from potential damage or liability if something goes wrong.

Perhaps most valuable of all, hiring a licensed electrician gives you peace of mind knowing your home’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and built to last. Whether you need to upgrade an electrical panel, install a backup generator, or repair outlets and switches, hiring a qualified expert keeps your property secure and functional.

Common Electrical Jobs That Require a Certified Electrician

Electrical repairs come in many forms, but a licensed professional should always handle anything that connects directly to your home’s wiring or power supply. These are some of the most common projects that call for a certified electrician:

  • Upgrading an outdated electrical panel to support modern appliances and devices
  • Installing ceiling fans, lighting fixtures, or recessed lighting
  • Troubleshooting tripping breakers or flickering lights that point to wiring or load problems
  • Adding new outlets or circuits to accommodate growing power needs
    Setting up a home generator or EV charger for dependable backup power
  • Repairing wiring damaged by pests, water, or age-related wear

If the job involves wiring, circuits, or power distribution, it belongs in the hands of a certified electrician (and not those of a DIYer). The right expertise keeps your home safe, efficient, and prepared for the future.

FAQs About Hiring Electricians vs. Handymen

1. Can a handyman legally do electrical repairs in Florida?

No. State law requires a licensed electrician for nearly all electrical work beyond changing light bulbs or swapping decorative fixtures.

2. Why do electricians charge more than handymen?

Their higher cost reflects years of specialized training, insurance coverage, and compliance with strict safety standards that protect your home.

3. Is it worth hiring a licensed electrician for small jobs?

Yes, especially for anything involving wiring or circuits. Even minor mistakes can lead to a short circuit or electrical fire.

4. What should I check before hiring an electrician?

Ask for their license number, proof of insurance, and recent references. Reputable electricians will gladly provide this information.

Tallahassee’s Trusted Electricians Are Just a Call Away

When the lights flicker, breakers keep tripping, or your generator refuses to start, you need a licensed electrician who knows Tallahassee homes inside and out.

At Meeks Electrical, every technician is a certified electrician with specialized training in residential and commercial systems across North Florida. From repairing storm-related power issues to upgrading electrical panels for growing households, we bring skill, reliability, and local care to every job. Home electrical problems can’t wait, and they should never be left to amateurs. Call Meeks Electrical today at 850-575-3201 or request service online. Our dependable electrical repairs will keep your Tallahassee home safe, efficient, and powered up.

electrical upgrades Tallahassee

Top 5 Electrical Upgrades That Boost Home Value in Tallahassee

Key Takeaways:

  • Upgrade the electrical panel to boost safety, pass inspections, and give buyers confidence in your home’s backbone system.
  • Modern lighting fixtures instantly refresh interiors, improve efficiency, and highlight your home’s best features.
  • Dedicated circuits for appliances and EV chargers prepare your home for modern living and future needs, reducing electrical issues.
  • Whole-house surge protection safeguards valuable electronics against Tallahassee’s frequent storms and lightning.
  • Smart home features like thermostats, security systems, and app-controlled lighting add convenience, energy savings, and curb appeal.

Selling a home in Tallahassee is about more than fresh paint and curb appeal. Buyers today want properties that feel safe, modern, and ready for the future.

One of the most effective ways to make your home stand out is by investing in electrical upgrades. From updated lighting to smart home features, the right improvements not only create a better living experience but also boost your home’s market value.

So, what delivers the most impact? Let’s take a look at the top five electrical upgrades in Tallahassee that maximize both appeal and investment.

1. Upgrade the Electrical Panel

One of the most effective electrical upgrades for Tallahassee homes is replacing an outdated or undersized electrical panel. Also called a breaker box, the panel is the control center for your home’s entire electrical system.

Many homes built before the 1990s still rely on original panels with limited electrical capacity that can’t keep up with modern demands. These older systems often max out quickly, making it difficult to run multiple appliances at once. In some cases, they may even contain components that no longer meet today’s safety codes, putting Tallahassee homeowners at risk of tripped breakers, outages, or electrical fires.

Why Panel Upgrades Matter

Tallahassee homes are a blend of historic charm and modern living. Buyers want confidence that their next home can safely support everything from energy-hungry HVAC systems to high-speed appliances. An outdated panel raises the likelihood of failed home inspections and lower offers, while a new one serves as both a safety upgrade and a strong selling point.

Pro Tip

Replacing your panel through a trusted electrical service company adds instant value by assuring buyers that the home’s electrical backbone is solid. In real estate listings, “new electrical panel” is a keyword that grabs attention and builds buyer confidence fast.

2. Install Modern Lighting Fixtures

Upgrading to modern lighting is one of the fastest ways to refresh your home’s look, improve efficiency, and create inviting spaces. Popular options include LED recessed lights, pendant fixtures in kitchens and living areas, and under-cabinet lighting that brightens work surfaces. Together, these lighting upgrades enhance both function and style.

Lighting Up Tallahassee Homes

Residential buyers are drawn to bright, welcoming interiors. In Tallahassee, where open floor plans and natural light are common, thoughtful lighting design can make all the difference. Outdated or dim fixtures shrink a room’s appeal, while modern, layered lighting highlights a home’s best features and makes it feel move-in ready.

Pro Tip

Choose LED fixtures with warm, natural tones. They reduce energy costs in Tallahassee’s warm climate, require less maintenance, and photograph beautifully. This helps your home stand out in listings and showings.

3. Add Dedicated Circuits for Appliances and EV Chargers

As households grow more reliant on technology, extra appliances, and electric vehicles, dedicated circuits have become a must-have upgrade. Large appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, washers, and dryers often perform best and most safely on their own circuit. The same is true for EV chargers, which are becoming increasingly common in Tallahassee garages and carports.

Why It Matters for Buyers

Sharing circuits between multiple high-demand appliances can cause frequent breaker trips and unnecessary wear on your system. By adding dedicated circuits, you demonstrate to buyers that the home is equipped for modern living and even future needs. This signals fewer headaches down the road and adds a level of preparedness that gives your property a competitive edge.

Pro Tip

If you’re planning to sell within the next few years, consider installing a 240-volt circuit in the garage for EV charging. Even if you don’t own an electric car, buyers who do will see it as a forward-thinking upgrade.

4. Install Whole-House Surge Protection

In a city like Tallahassee, where summer storms and lightning strikes are a fact of life, whole-house surge protection is more than a luxury; it’s peace of mind. Unlike simple power strips, these devices are installed at the electrical panel and safeguard your entire home from sudden voltage spikes.

Why Surge Protection Adds Value

Today’s homebuyers own thousands of dollars’ worth of electronics, appliances, and smart devices that can be damaged in an instant by a power surge. Whole-house protection helps prevent costly losses and gives buyers confidence that the home is well-protected against Florida’s unpredictable weather. For many, it’s a small investment with significant returns.

Pro Tip

Pair whole-house surge protection with upgraded smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms for an added layer of safety that appeals to both buyers and insurers.

5. Invest in Smart Home Features

Smart home technology is no longer just for luxury properties. In Tallahassee, more buyers are looking for homes that already come equipped with features like smart thermostats, app-controlled lighting, security systems, and video doorbells.

Why Smart Upgrades Appeal

Convenience, security, and energy savings are major selling points. A smart thermostat, for example, can reduce energy bills by learning a household’s patterns and adjusting automatically, an attractive benefit in a city with hot summers and high cooling costs. Security features such as cameras and smart locks also provide peace of mind, which resonates with buyers across all demographics.

Pro Tip

Focus on smart upgrades that integrate easily with popular platforms like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit. Buyers appreciate compatibility and ease of use, making your home even more market-ready.

Conclusion

When preparing to sell your Tallahassee home, electrical upgrades are more than just improvements; they’re investments in safety, efficiency, and buyer appeal. From panel replacements to smart home technology, these five updates can help your property shine in a competitive market.

With Meeks Electrical Services, you don’t have to guess which upgrades are worth it. Our team provides expert guidance and professional installation to ensure your home is market-ready and future-proof.

Ready to add value to your Tallahassee home? Contact us today for a consultation and see how the right electrical upgrades can make your property stand out.

FAQs: Electrical Upgrades Tallahassee

Q1: Which electrical upgrades add the most value when selling a home in Tallahassee?

A: Panel replacements, modern lighting, and smart home features are among the most impactful upgrades. They improve safety, efficiency, and buyer confidence, which can translate into stronger offers.

Q2: Do smart home electrical upgrades really increase home value?

A: Yes. Features like smart thermostats, lighting controls, and security systems make homes feel modern and convenient. Many Tallahassee buyers now expect these upgrades as part of a move-in-ready property.

Q3: Is adding an EV charger worth it if I don’t currently own an electric car?

A: Absolutely. An EV charger signals that your home is future-ready, appealing to eco-conscious homebuyers and those planning to purchase an electric vehicle in the near future.

Q4: Should electrical upgrades be done before listing my home for sale?

A: Yes. Completing upgrades before listing ensures they’re highlighted in your home’s marketing and inspections. It also gives buyers peace of mind that they won’t need to handle these improvements after purchase.

Q5: Can I complete electrical upgrades on my own?

A: Electrical work should always be handled by a licensed electrician. Professional installation ensures safety, compliance with Tallahassee codes, and long-term reliability qualities that buyers value.

electrician in Tallahassee FL

Do I Need an Electrician or Can I DIY This? Your Tallahassee Electrical Checklist

Key Takeaways

  • Most electrical repairs pose safety risks and have specific legal requirements in Tallahassee.
  • Quick fixes like changing bulbs or resetting breakers may be safe for homeowners.
  • Major repairs, new installations, and electrical upgrades should always be handled by a licensed electrician in Tallahassee, FL.
  • Florida law and local codes often require permits and inspections for electrical work.
  • Trust, experience, and safety are key to making the right choice for your property.

When sparks fly or lights flicker unexpectedly, it’s easy to wonder: is this a quick DIY fix, or a job for a seasoned professional?

In Tallahassee, where storms, humidity, and aging infrastructure can all cause problems, knowing when to call an electrician is about safety and long-term peace of mind.

The stakes are high: faulty electrical work can lead to house fires, costly code violations, or even injury. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, it’s estimated that up to 24,200 residential building electrical fires are reported annually, causing hundreds of deaths and injuries alongside over $1.2 billion in property loss. 

With Tallahassee’s mix of historic properties and new builds, extra care is needed before reaching for a screwdriver or wire stripper.

Let’s walk through a practical checklist for Tallahassee-area homeowners, contractors, and property owners. We’ll help you spot the safe DIY jobs, and (more importantly) when to bring in a licensed electrician in Tallahassee, FL.

Understanding Local Laws and Codes

Tallahassee follows Florida’s statewide building codes, which set firm rules for electrical work in residences. Unpermitted or improper wiring can lead to insurance issues or fines, and code violations may delay future sales or renovations.

When Permits and Licensed Electricians Are Required

Any electrical work that involves new wiring, new circuits, service panel changes, or outdoor installations needs a permit. 

Pulling permits for this kind of work ensures the job is inspected for safety by the city. Tallahassee inspectors look closely at work, especially in neighborhoods where older wiring is common.

Local rules mean that even well-intentioned DIYers can run into trouble. For example, the City of Tallahassee Utilities Code and the Florida Building Code require that a state-certified electrician carry out most wiring repairs or upgrades. 

The average home in Tallahassee is more than 30 years old, making hidden electrical issues risky to tackle without experience.

The Safe DIY List: What Homeowners Can Handle

While many electrical projects require a pro, some routine tasks are usually safe for an informed homeowner. These include: 

  • Changing Light Bulbs: Swapping a bulb or LED fixture is safe when the power is off.
  • Resetting Breakers: Tripped breakers from overloaded circuits are easy to reset, but watch for repeat trips (a sign of deeper issues).
  • Replacing Faceplates: Swapping cover plates for outlets or switches poses little risk if you cut off power.
  • Plugging in Devices or Surge Protectors: Using surge protection is wise, especially with Tallahassee’s stormy weather.

Going beyond these basics puts your safety and home at risk. Even minor-looking jobs, such as switch replacements, can hide surprises behind the wall.

Clear Red Flags: When to Call an Electrical Contractor

Knowing when to reach for the phone rather than a tool belt saves time, money, and safety headaches down the line. Here are some electrical issues you don’t want to tackle all by yourself: 

  • Flickering or Dimming Lights: These could signal overloaded circuits, loose wiring, or failing fixtures. Older parts of Tallahassee often see this.
  • Warm or Buzzing Outlets: Heat or odd sounds are a warning. Faulty wiring and loose connections can be serious fire hazards.
  • Repeated Breaker Trips: If the same breaker cuts multiple times, an electrician should inspect your panel and circuits.
  • Loss of Power to Part of the House or Building: Troubleshooting larger power failures requires experience, especially with mixed wiring ages common in Leon County.
  • New Appliance, Ceiling Fan, Pool, or Generator Installations: High-demand appliances need wiring that meets modern codes. A mistake here is expensive and risky.

Calling a licensed electrician is the safest choice when you’re facing these red flags. A highly skilled professional has the training to quickly diagnose the problem and correct it before it turns into a bigger, more dangerous issue. 

Instead of guessing or risking injury, you’ll have the confidence that the work is up to code and reliable. A qualified contractor will do a fantastic job that protects your home, family, and investment for years to come.

Handling Larger Projects and Renovations

Major jobs and upgrades typically require a licensed electrician in Tallahassee, FL. These projects carry complex risks and legal requirements, and to have a great experience, you need experience. 

Major Electrical Additions

Are you adding outlets, running new circuits for an addition, installing an electric car charger, or updating your panel? All of these require a permit and an experienced professional or company that knows local rules. 

Florida’s climate, with its storms and power surges, puts extra demand on home electrical systems. An electrician will ground your system properly and make sure all connections meet code.

Renovating Older Homes

Older Tallahassee homes often have outdated wiring or two-prong outlets. Upgrading to modern wiring helps prevent shorts and fires, but can uncover tricky issues hidden behind walls. Professional electricians have tools like circuit tracers and insulation testers to find risks before they get worse.

The Role of Inspections and Preventive Maintenance

True peace of mind comes from catching potential problems before they ever reach your breaker box. Having your property’s wiring inspected regularly reduces the risk of fire, keeps your home or business in compliance with modern codes, and saves money by avoiding emergency repairs. 

Whether you own an older Tallahassee home or a busy commercial space, investing in inspections and preventive maintenance means you won’t be caught off guard when needing electrical work suddenly becomes urgent. A licensed electrician provides excellent work that strengthens your system’s reliability and protects your investment.

What to Expect from a Residential Electrical Inspection

For homes over twenty years old, or when buying or selling property in Tallahassee, asking for a full electrical inspection is smart. Licensed electricians will test panels, outlets, and visible wiring, looking for code violations or worn-out components.

Many Tallahassee business owners also handle routine maintenance, such as pressing test switches for exit signs or checking emergency lights. Letting a certified electrician conduct a yearly checkup can extend the life of your building’s systems, keep things up to code, and preserve your family members’ safety. 

Choosing the Right Electrician in Tallahassee, FL

Working with a local, licensed professional means you get more than a quick fix. You gain a partner who knows the specific demands of Tallahassee’s climate and building codes.

A reputable electrician stands by their great service, responds in a timely manner, and puts your safety first. Tallahassee homeowners often hear stories of simple wiring jobs turning into bigger repairs due to years of patchwork fixes. 

Trustworthy pros handle everything: small service calls, major upgrades, or working alongside your general contractor during renovations.

Book Your Electrical Services With Our Tallahassee Electricians 

At Meeks Electrical Services, our decades of family-run expertise, commitment to safety, and focus on honest, customer-centered advice set us apart. Whether you need troubleshooting, electrical panel upgrades, repairs, or a full rewiring for your home or business, we customize every electrical job to your needs with integrity and care. 

Don’t risk DIY shortcuts. Instead, trust our highly recommended licensed professionals to protect your property and guarantee lasting quality. For reliable, local electrical services at a fair price, make Meeks Electrical your first call.

Get in touch online today or call 850-575-5241. Let’s discuss your electrical needs in North Florida, and we’ll provide a free quote. 

Frequently Asked Questions: Electrician in Tallahassee, FL 

1. What electrical work can I legally do myself in Tallahassee, FL?

In Tallahassee, homeowners can often change light fixtures, outlets, and switches. Still, any work that involves new wiring, the main panel, or large appliance circuits requires a licensed electrician and proper permits.

2. Why do I need an electrician for older homes?

Older homes in Tallahassee may have outdated or unsafe wiring. A licensed electrician knows how to update these systems safely and bring them up to code.

3. How do I know if my electrical project needs a permit?

Any significant electrical change (like adding circuit breakers, upgrading your service panel, or installing outdoor power) needs a building permit in Tallahassee. Always check with local authorities or ask a licensed electrician.

4. How often should I schedule an electrical inspection?

For homes over 20 years old, after major renovations, or before sale or purchase, it’s smart to ask for a professional inspection every few years to catch hidden risks.

5. What are common signs that I need to call an electrician in Tallahassee, FL?

Lights that flicker, warm outlets, frequent breaker trips, signs of electrical burning, or odd smells around wiring mean you should call a licensed electrician right away.

commercial electrical inspection Tallahassee

What to Expect During a Commercial Electrical Inspection in Tallahassee

Key Takeaways:

  • Commercial electrical inspections in Tallahassee ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with the Florida Building Code and NEC standards.
  • Inspections are required for new construction, renovations, upgrades, property transfers, insurance, and certain businesses on an annual basis.
  • Facilities with heavy electrical loads or stringent safety requirements, such as those in healthcare, industrial settings, and data centers, often require annual inspections.
  • Preparing for an inspection includes completing electrical work, repairing hazards, compiling documentation, and ensuring system access.

Suppose you own or manage a retail store, restaurant, office, factory, or other commercial operation in Tallahassee. In that case, you want to ensure that your building’s electrical system is operating efficiently and safely. From an efficiency standpoint, any electrical breakdowns can cause significant disruptions to the company’s workflow, taking a bite out of the bottom line. Concerning safety, it’s essential to protect workers, customers, and anyone visiting the business premises from electrical hazards, such as shocks and fires. 

The best way a Tallahassee business can help ensure the efficiency and safety of its electrical system is to conduct periodic commercial electrical inspections. So let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from a commercial electrical inspection in Tallahassee. 

Regulatory Reasons for a Commercial Electrical Inspection

The Florida Building Code requires commercial buildings to undergo electrical inspections under several distinct scenarios. Florida’s Code incorporates the National Electrical Code (NEC) as its standard for electrical safety. It uses these inspections to ensure compliance with state and local regulations, thereby preventing hazards such as fires, shocks, or system failures in offices, retail spaces, warehouses, industrial facilities, and other commercial buildings. The Code typically requires commercial electrical inspections for:

  • New construction.
  • Major renovations.
  • Electrical service upgrades and additions.
  • Insurance and property transfer purposes. 
  • Annual compliance checks. 

Commercial operations with high electrical demands, critical safety requirements, or regulatory oversight are generally required to undergo annual compliance checks to ensure ongoing safety and compliance with the Code. Commercial buildings that typically require annual compliance checks include:

  • Industrial facilities
  • Healthcare facilities
  • Data centers
  • Office buildings
  • Commercial retail operations
  • Facilities with hazardous operations
  • Multi-family residential complexes (the commercial portions)  

Other Reasons for a Commercial Electrical Inspection

Even if not mandated by Florida’s Building Code or other regulations, businesses should periodically schedule a commercial electrical inspection to ensure electrical safety and system efficiency. The frequency of such inspections depends on the size, complexity, and age of the business operation’s electrical system. However, inspections every one to three years are advisable for most commercial buildings. Benefits of periodic commercial electrical inspections include:

  • Identify potential hazards, such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or outdated equipment, to reduce the risk of electrical shocks, fires, or equipment damage.
  • Expose and address minor issues before they escalate into more significant problems, which can result in costly repairs or downtime.
  • Reduce insurance premiums and minimize liability in the event of electrical-related accidents. 
  • Identify electrical inefficiencies, which can help the business save on energy costs.  

Preparing for Your Commercial Electrical Inspection

There are several steps you can take to prepare your business facilities for a commercial electrical inspection, which can help prevent delays or inspection failures. For starters, if the inspection involves new construction, renovations, or electrical upgrades, make sure the work has been completed. Other steps you should take include:

  • Repair any obvious hazards, such as exposed wiring or overloaded circuits, before the inspection.  
  • Compile any related documentation, including plans, permits, and any previous electrical inspection reports.
  • Ensure all facility electrical components are accessible, with clear pathways and working room around panels, wiring, and any electrical equipment.
  • Provide employees, other occupants, and potential visitors with advance notice of the impending inspection, and coordinate operational shutdowns as necessary for the inspection. 
  • If the inspection will include infrared/thermal scanning of transformers, motors, or other substantial electrical equipment, power on all of the facility’s systems under normal load.  

What to Expect During the Inspection

A commercial electrical inspection can last between one and four hours, depending on the facility’s size and the complexity of its electrical system. A small office might take an hour or so, while a large factory might take four hours or more. 

When the electrical inspector arrives, they typically first review the documentation and discuss the electrical system with the contractor, business owner, and/or anyone most familiar with the facility’s electrical system. The majority of the inspection involves a visual and hands-on assessment of all electrical installations, using tools such as multimeters to check voltages and infrared cameras to detect heat. Inspectors also conduct functional testing of equipment, such as ground fault continuity, and photograph key electrical components, noting their findings on a standard inspection form.  

While a commercial electrical inspection is primarily concerned with ensuring that the electrical system complies with building codes and related NEC standards, it inherently uncovers any safety issues and electrical inefficiencies. Electrical components assessed during an inspection include:

  • Service panels
  • Wiring and conduit
  • Outlets, switches, and fixtures
  • Circuits and load calculations
  • Special systems such as generators, surge protection, EV chargers, signage, fire alarms, and other electrical safety equipment. 
  • Infrared/thermal scanning of motors and transformers, as needed.   

Electrical inspections typically conclude with a walk-through and a debrief on the inspector’s findings, followed by a written report. Inspectors typically provide the same-day notice that the facility’s electrical system has passed inspection. When a facility fails an inspection or requires electrical corrections, the detailed inspection report will list outstanding issues and provide deadlines for resolving them, which are typically 10 to 30 days. You can schedule a follow-up inspection after your commercial electrician has corrected the problems.    

Turn to Meeks for Your Commercial Electrical Service Needs

With more than 45 years of helping Tallahassee-area business owners power up their commercial operations with outstanding electrical installations, service, and maintenance, trust in Meeks to ensure that your facility’s electrical system passes inspection with flying colors. For all your company’s commercial electrical system needs, you can contact Meeks Electrical Services in Tallahassee at 850-575-3201.

FAQs: Commercial Electrical Inspections in Tallahassee

Q: What is a commercial electrical inspection in Tallahassee, and when is it required?

A: Commercial electrical inspections in Tallahassee ensure electrical systems in business operations comply with the Florida Building Code and the National Electrical Code. State and local regulations require it for new construction, major renovations, electrical upgrades, and, for some larger operations, annual compliance checks. 

Q: Which Tallahassee businesses need annual commercial electrical inspections?

A: Businesses with facilities requiring high electrical loads, with critical safety issues, and/or under regulatory oversight typically require annual commercial electrical inspections. Examples include industrial facilities, healthcare centers, data centers, office buildings, and operations using hazardous materials.

Q: What does a commercial electrical inspector check in Tallahassee? 

A: Commercial electrical inspectors in Tallahassee use a visual and hands-on approach to inspections, with assistance from tools like multimeters and infrared cameras, to inspect service panels, wiring, conduits, switches, grounding, load calculations, motors, transformers, and other electrical equipment as warranted.  

Q: How do I prepare for a commercial electrical inspection in Tallahassee? 

A: Complete all permitted electrical work, repair visible hazards, compile all relevant electrical system documentation, ensure full electrical system access, and power on all systems under normal load. 

Q: What happens if my business fails a commercial electrical inspection in Tallahassee? 

A: If you fail a commercial electrical inspection in Tallahassee, your inspector will submit a report to you that details all outstanding issues, with a 10- to 30-day deadline for correcting them. Once your commercial electrician has resolved these issues, you can reschedule a follow-up inspection.