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Licensed electrician handoff checklist
Use this checklist to organize observations and questions before a licensed electrician visits your home or jobsite.
Project or service request
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Main reason for visit | Panel upgrade / new circuit / troubleshooting / inspection / repair / other |
| Property type | Single-family / multifamily / shop / garage / other |
| Approximate age of electrical system | |
| Main service size if known | |
| Known recent changes | EV charger / generator / HVAC / addition / remodel / appliance / other |
| Permit or inspection question |
Symptoms to document
| Symptom | Where it happens | Frequency | What is plugged in or running | Notes for electrician |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breaker trips | ||||
| Lights flicker | ||||
| Warm outlet or switch | ||||
| Buzzing or arcing sound | ||||
| Burning smell | ||||
| GFCI or AFCI trips |
Loads and equipment to discuss
| Load or device | Location | Nameplate amps/watts if visible | Existing circuit if known | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EV charger | ||||
| Generator inlet or transfer equipment | ||||
| Range, dryer, or welder | ||||
| Heat pump or HVAC equipment | ||||
| Workshop tools | ||||
| Outdoor equipment |
Photos to gather without opening equipment
- Panel directory and the outside of the panel cover.
- Meter and service entrance location.
- Existing outlet, switch, or equipment location.
- Nameplate labels on appliances or equipment when accessible.
- The route area for proposed wiring, conduit, or outdoor work.
- Any visible damage, water exposure, or corrosion from a safe distance.
Questions for the electrician
- Is a permit or inspection required for this work?
- Is the existing service capacity sufficient for the planned load?
- Will any circuit require GFCI, AFCI, or weather-resistant protection?
- Is the panel directory accurate, and should it be updated?
- Are there code issues that must be corrected before the requested work?
- What parts of the work will be inaccessible after walls or finishes are closed?
Stop and call promptly when
- A breaker trips repeatedly after one reset.
- You smell burning, see smoke, or hear arcing.
- Electrical equipment is wet or near standing water.
- A panel, outlet, switch, or cord feels hot.
- You see damaged insulation, exposed conductors, or scorch marks.
Related guides
- Electrical panel upgrade cost
Compare cost factors before asking about service upgrades.
- Panel upgrades and load calculations
Understand why load planning matters for major new circuits.
- Electrical permits and inspections
Prepare permit and inspection questions for the visit.
- Outdoor electrical work
Review weather-exposure questions before exterior work.