Paint In Electrical Outlets

[JKingFL1]

During the inspection of a property I noticed the majority of the electrical outlets had paint on the inside. Inside of the outlets not simply on the wall plate. The outlets were not completely covered. However, some of the outlets had so much paint that my outlet tester could not be used. I have not come across this situation before and wonder if this should be a repair item for the subject to meet FHA guidelines. It could be considered a safety issue as a possible fire hazard or if it was necessary for someone to scrape paint out of the outlet because they are unable to plug something in.

The property featured some other items that would require repair. So this would be something added to the list. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

If you would considered this a repair item what would be the fix? Cleaning the paint out of the outlet? Complete replacement of the outlets that have paint?

 

[miktay]

Repair item? Yes.
Suggested remedy: replacement.
(merely cleaning them out would be hit and miss).

 

[CANative]

Make a repair requirement.

 

[JKingFL1]

Thanks for the responses. That is what I was thinking as well.

 

[Marty Boone]

The Appraiser must examine the electrical system to ensure that there is no visible frayed
wiring or exposed wires in the dwelling, including garage and basement areas, and report
if the amperage and panel size appears inadequate for the Property. The Appraiser must
operate a sample of switches,lighting fixtures, and receptacles inside the house and
garage, and on the exterior walls, and report any deficiencies. The Appraiser is not
required to insert any tool, probe or testing device inside the electrical panel or to
dismantle any electrical device or control.

page 497 of 4000.1 also written in Appendix D

Outlet replacement if you believe there is a safety hazard present. IMHO, leave the probe at home.

 

[JKingFL1]

If you notice it says "not required" it doesn't say "shouldn't" or is "not permitted". I consider it optional and use it if to check outlets that look questionable. It is something I will always bring along on inspections. Thanks all the responses. The assignment has been completed.

 

[JoeB]

If they performed that type of workmanship on the electrical outlets, dollars to doughnuts there is a whole lot more than can be uncovered! This is why i choose my FHA work very carefully. When a home is in rough shape, you cant possibly list all the deficiencies without missing some. I do not need that liability with all the other work out there to be had!

 

[Mike Garrett RAA]

Another fine reason...

 

[Tru Red]

The appraiser....is testing electrical outlets?

An appraiser is one who sets a value upon property, real or personal.

A home inspection is a limited, non-invasive examination of the condition of a home, often in connection with the sale of that home.

Did the home inspector also provide an opinion of value?

 

[JKingFL1]

This seems to be getting pretty off topic. The question was, "should it be a repair item?". Some helpful input was provided. Thanks to the folks that provided helpful information. As far as testing outlets that is not something I typically do. However, if I see a questionable outlet I may test it. In this situation that occurred. Again this was an FHA assignment.