Buying an Older Home in D.C.? Here's Your Electrical Safety Checklist

Historic homes in Washington, D.C., offer a lot to love, from their charm and character to walkable neighborhoods and classic architecture. But if you're planning to buy one, it's crucial to understand what might be happening behind the walls. A house built decades ago may still rely on an outdated electrical system that isn't equipped to meet the demands of modern living. Even with a general home inspection, you may not get a complete picture of the electrical setup. That's why it's a smart idea to have a licensed electrician conduct a detailed inspection before move-in day (or as soon as possible if you're already living there).

Why a Home Inspection Isn't Always Enough

A standard home inspection can identify visible issues, but it might not catch underlying electrical concerns that only a qualified electrician would recognize. An electrical inspection focuses on safety, code compliance, and how well your system can support everyday needs like powering HVAC systems, kitchen appliances, smart home tech, and more.

Older homes in D.C. may have aluminum wiring and electrical panels that haven't been updated in decades. That doesn't always mean trouble, but it's worth verifying before making the house your own.

What to Look For in an Older Home's Electrical System

A professional assessment should review several key areas:

• The Electrical Panel: Outdated panels may not offer enough capacity to handle modern power demands. Signs like tripped breakers or a panel that hasn't been labeled properly can indicate the need for an upgrade.
• Wiring Type: Some older homes still have aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring. These types were once standard, but they're no longer recommended for safe, efficient use and may not meet today's codes.
• Outlets: Two-pronged outlets lack grounding, which can be unsafe for many modern devices. Swapping them out for grounded three-prong outlets and GFCI protection in kitchens and bathrooms is a simple way to increase safety.

Why Schedule a Whole-Home Electrical Safety Inspection Before You Buy

Hiring a licensed electrician to inspect your home's electrical system provides a clearer view of how everything is working and what might need attention. From checking for worn wires to identifying overloaded circuits, a whole-home safety inspection helps you catch small issues before they grow into bigger problems.

More than that, it gives you confidence. Knowing your electrical system is up to date means you can enjoy your new home without wondering what might happen if you plug in just one more appliance.

Already Moved In? It's Not Too Late

If you've already settled into your older home and haven't had a full inspection yet, it's still worth scheduling one. Homeownership is full of to-dos, but electrical safety should never be pushed to the bottom of the list. Simple upgrades like replacing outlets, adding surge protection, or updating your panel can all help make your home safer and more efficient.

Wilcox Electric has been serving homeowners across Washington, D.C. since 1989, with a focus on reliable service and real-world expertise. Their licensed electricians understand the unique needs of older homes and know how to recommend practical, effective upgrades that protect both your property and your peace of mind.

Schedule a whole-home electrical safety inspection today and make sure your historic D.C. home is safe, functional, and ready for modern living.