Hidden Dangers in New Homes: Burnt Electrical Terminals
A New Home Isn’t Always a Safe Home
Buying a brand-new house feels like hitting the jackpot. Everything’s clean, modern, and untouched. But what’s behind the walls may not be so pretty.
Recently, I did a home inspection in Walton County on a shiny new build. From the outside? Flawless. But behind the A/C disconnect box was a burnt electrical terminal that had been arcing since day one.
It was hot. It was damaged. And it was one spark away from starting a fire.
I’ve inspected thousands of homes across Canton, Cumming, Alpharetta, and Woodstock, and I can tell you—“new” doesn’t mean “safe.”
What Is Electrical Arcing and Why Should You Care
Electrical arcing is when electricity jumps between connections—like a mini lightning bolt. It gets hot enough to melt wires, damage metal, and spark a fire.
🔥 According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical failures caused over 46,000 home fires in 2023 alone.
Most homeowners never see it coming—because these issues hide behind walls, panels, and disconnect boxes.
Why City Inspectors Miss What I Find
A lot of homeowners believe if their home passed city code, they’re good.
That’s not always true.
City inspectors don’t:
Open every disconnect box
Remove panel covers
Test outlets with thermal tools
Follow every wire or conduit
I do.
When I inspect homes in Canton, Alpharetta, Woodstock, and Cumming, I check the whole system, not just what’s required by code.
City inspections are about minimum standards. Mine are about maximum peace of mind.
What I Check in Every Home Inspection
Here’s what I look for when you hire IHI Home Inspections—especially in new construction:
Roof & Attic: Leaks, insulation, flashing
Foundation & Structure: Cracks, water intrusion
Electrical Systems: Panels, breakers, GFCI/AFCI, wiring
HVAC Systems: Ducts, electrical safety, airflow
Plumbing: Leaks, drainage, water pressure
Interior & Exterior: Windows, crawlspaces, doors
I even open disconnects and use thermal imaging to detect dangerous heat spots like the one in Walton County.
Want to see what I’ve found in real homes?
Check out my YouTube Shorts for jaw-dropping home inspection fails.
Why "Brand-New" Doesn't Always Mean "Problem-Free"
In fast-growing areas like Canton, Alpharetta, Woodstock, and Cumming, homes are going up fast. Builders often hire subcontractors who are under pressure to move quickly.
And that’s when corners get cut.
Common Issues I Find in New Builds:
Unbonded wires in panel boxes
Improperly sealed roofing
Foundation cracks hidden by paint
HVAC ducts not connected
GFCI outlets that don’t trip
…and of course, burnt terminals that nearly start fires
These are all things I’ve personally found—and documented with photos in my digital inspection reports.
Why Families Trust IHI Home Inspections
Since 2006, I’ve completed over 5,000 home inspections in Georgia. I bring:
Experience – Over 17 years walking roofs and crawling attics
Advanced tools – Moisture meters, infrared cameras, voltage testers
Clear reports – With photos, diagrams, and explanations
Customer service – I explain everything in simple language
I inspect homes like my family will be living there. That’s why so many clients in Cherokee, Forsyth, and Fulton counties come back for second and third inspections.
And I always tell it like it is—even if it’s uncomfortable. Because it could save you thousands—or your life.
Don't Trust "New." Trust Verified
That burnt terminal I found? It could’ve gone unnoticed for years—until it sparked a fire.
This is why every home—even the ones with that “new house smell”—should get a professional home inspection.
📍 If you're buying in Canton, selling in Woodstock, or moving into a new build in Cumming or Alpharetta, don’t skip this step.
Ready to Schedule?
I’m David Lelak, and I’d love to inspect your future home as if it were my own.
📞 Call 404-788-2581
🖱 Or Schedule Online Here
Want to know what other scary things I find in “perfect” homes?
👉 Read this: The Pump That Wouldn’t Quit: Why Water Is the Hidden Danger »
