Extension Cord Garage Fix? A Safety Risk!

Why Extension Cords Are a Fire Hazard: A Home Inspection Warning

September 09, 20252 min read

A Hidden Danger Found in Many Homes

As a professional
home inspector in Cumming, GA, I often come across electrical issues that homeowners don’t realize are serious. One of the most common—and most dangerous—involves using extension cords as a permanent solution for wiring needs.

During a recent home inspection in North Metro Atlanta, I found a garage door opener powered by an extension cord stretched across the ceiling. The cord wasn’t just running one device—it was powering multiple appliances. This may seem harmless, but in reality, it’s a fire hazard waiting to happen.

Whether you live in Canton, Alpharetta, Woodstock, or Cumming, these shortcuts put your home and family at risk.

Why Extensions Cords Shouldnt Replace Witing

Extension cords are designed for temporary use only. Using them as a permanent fix can lead to:

  • Overloaded circuits – Too many devices can cause cords to overheat.

  • Electrical fires – Frayed cords and exposed wiring spark easily.

  • Trip hazards – Cords stretched across floors or ceilings create safety risks.

  • Improper grounding – Many cords lack grounding protection, leaving your devices vulnerable.

In homes across Forsyth, Cherokee, and Fulton counties, I see this mistake far too often—and it’s always a red flag during an inspection.

What Home Inspector Looks For

A thorough home inspection in Alpharetta, Woodstock, or Cumming includes checking the electrical system for:

  • Incorrect wiring – Frayed wires, poor connections, or exposed cables

  • Outdated systems – Old panels or knob-and-tube wiring still found in older homes

  • Overloaded circuits – Too few outlets causing unsafe power use

  • Electrical panel issues – Breakers or boxes showing damage or wear

Many of these problems hide behind walls and ceilings. Without a trained eye, homeowners may never know they exist—until it’s too late.

Why Choose IHI Home Inspections

I’m
David Lelak, owner of IHI Home Inspections, serving families across Canton, Cumming, Alpharetta, and Woodstock since 2006. With more than 5,000 inspections completed, I’ve seen firsthand how hidden electrical hazards can threaten a home.

When you schedule an inspection with me, you get:

  • A detailed digital report with photos delivered the next day

  • An inspection that covers over 2,500 items in your home

  • Local expertise from someone who knows the challenges of North Metro Atlanta homes

  • Peace of mind that your family and investment are protected

Protect Your Home and Family Today

Using extension cords as permanent wiring isn’t just unsafe—it’s a fire waiting to happen. Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a home in
Cumming, Canton, Alpharetta, or Woodstock, GA, a professional inspection can uncover hidden risks before they cause harm.

📞 Call 404-788-2581 or Schedule Your Home Inspection Online today.

David Lelak, Canton's top home inspector and owner of IHI Home Inspections, brings almost two decades of extensive experience and unmatched expertise to every inspection. With a commitment to thorough, detailed home evaluations, David ensures clients in Canton, Milton, Alpharetta, Ball Ground, Cumming, Woodstock, Roswell, Johns Creek, Marietta, and all across North Atlanta receive comprehensive reports that highlight essential home insights. His in-depth knowledge spans from structural assessments to appliance safety checks, offering peace of mind and clarity in the home buying or selling process. Trust David Lelak to guide you through your home investment with professionalism and care. Schedule your inspection today for quality and confidence.

David Lelak

David Lelak, Canton's top home inspector and owner of IHI Home Inspections, brings almost two decades of extensive experience and unmatched expertise to every inspection. With a commitment to thorough, detailed home evaluations, David ensures clients in Canton, Milton, Alpharetta, Ball Ground, Cumming, Woodstock, Roswell, Johns Creek, Marietta, and all across North Atlanta receive comprehensive reports that highlight essential home insights. His in-depth knowledge spans from structural assessments to appliance safety checks, offering peace of mind and clarity in the home buying or selling process. Trust David Lelak to guide you through your home investment with professionalism and care. Schedule your inspection today for quality and confidence.

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Copyright © 2025 | IHI Home Inspection, Atlanta

IHI Home Inspections

Extension Cord Garage Fix? A Safety Risk!

Why Extension Cords Are a Fire Hazard: A Home Inspection Warning

September 09, 20252 min read

A Hidden Danger Found in Many Homes

As a professional
home inspector in Cumming, GA, I often come across electrical issues that homeowners don’t realize are serious. One of the most common—and most dangerous—involves using extension cords as a permanent solution for wiring needs.

During a recent home inspection in North Metro Atlanta, I found a garage door opener powered by an extension cord stretched across the ceiling. The cord wasn’t just running one device—it was powering multiple appliances. This may seem harmless, but in reality, it’s a fire hazard waiting to happen.

Whether you live in Canton, Alpharetta, Woodstock, or Cumming, these shortcuts put your home and family at risk.

Why Extensions Cords Shouldnt Replace Witing

Extension cords are designed for temporary use only. Using them as a permanent fix can lead to:

  • Overloaded circuits – Too many devices can cause cords to overheat.

  • Electrical fires – Frayed cords and exposed wiring spark easily.

  • Trip hazards – Cords stretched across floors or ceilings create safety risks.

  • Improper grounding – Many cords lack grounding protection, leaving your devices vulnerable.

In homes across Forsyth, Cherokee, and Fulton counties, I see this mistake far too often—and it’s always a red flag during an inspection.

What Home Inspector Looks For

A thorough home inspection in Alpharetta, Woodstock, or Cumming includes checking the electrical system for:

  • Incorrect wiring – Frayed wires, poor connections, or exposed cables

  • Outdated systems – Old panels or knob-and-tube wiring still found in older homes

  • Overloaded circuits – Too few outlets causing unsafe power use

  • Electrical panel issues – Breakers or boxes showing damage or wear

Many of these problems hide behind walls and ceilings. Without a trained eye, homeowners may never know they exist—until it’s too late.

Why Choose IHI Home Inspections

I’m
David Lelak, owner of IHI Home Inspections, serving families across Canton, Cumming, Alpharetta, and Woodstock since 2006. With more than 5,000 inspections completed, I’ve seen firsthand how hidden electrical hazards can threaten a home.

When you schedule an inspection with me, you get:

  • A detailed digital report with photos delivered the next day

  • An inspection that covers over 2,500 items in your home

  • Local expertise from someone who knows the challenges of North Metro Atlanta homes

  • Peace of mind that your family and investment are protected

Protect Your Home and Family Today

Using extension cords as permanent wiring isn’t just unsafe—it’s a fire waiting to happen. Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a home in
Cumming, Canton, Alpharetta, or Woodstock, GA, a professional inspection can uncover hidden risks before they cause harm.

📞 Call 404-788-2581 or Schedule Your Home Inspection Online today.

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