In electrical contracting, there’s no room for shortcuts—especially when it comes to code compliance. Following the National Electrical Code (NEC) isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s your frontline defense against costly callbacks, failed inspections, and safety hazards that can damage your reputation.
Still, even experienced electricians can fall into traps when juggling tight deadlines and fast-paced projects. Here are the top five most common electrical code violations—and how to stay ahead of them.
1. Missing or Improper Grounding
The Violation: Failing to properly ground electrical systems or devices—or skipping grounding altogether.
Why It Matters: Grounding prevents electric shock and equipment damage during faults.
How to Avoid It: Always confirm that metal boxes, receptacles, and appliances are properly bonded and grounded. Use grounding screws or clips where required, and never assume existing systems are compliant.
2. Overfilling Electrical Boxes
The Violation: Installing too many conductors in a single box without enough space.
Why It Matters: Overcrowded boxes generate heat, increase the risk of shorts, and can lead to failed inspections.
How to Avoid It: Use the NEC box fill calculations to determine the right size. Don’t forget to account for devices, clamps, and grounds in your count.
3. Improper Wire Splicing and Connections
The Violation: Splicing wires without a junction box or failing to use proper connectors.
Why It Matters: Unsafe splices are fire hazards and major violations during inspection.
How to Avoid It: Always make splices inside approved boxes, and use wire nuts or other code-approved connectors. Label or color-code your wires clearly to prevent future confusion.
4. Inadequate Support for Cables
The Violation: Running NM (Romex) cables without securing them properly.
Why It Matters: Loose cables can sag, become damaged, or even pulled loose from boxes over time.
How to Avoid It: NEC typically requires NM cable to be supported within 12 inches of a box and every 4.5 feet thereafter. Use staples, straps, or clamps—just don’t over-tighten and damage the sheathing.
5. Using the Wrong Circuit Breaker or Fuse Size
The Violation: Mismatching breakers or fuses to the wire size or connected load.
Why It Matters: Undersized breakers trip constantly. Oversized ones won’t protect the wire from overheating.
How to Avoid It: Know your ampacity tables and match wire gauges with the proper breaker size. Double-check specs on high-demand appliances and consult the manufacturer when in doubt.
Stay Sharp, Stay Compliant
Staying up to code doesn’t just keep your projects legal—it reinforces trust with your clients, reduces liability, and helps you avoid costly do-overs.
Stay current with NEC updates, invest in regular training for your crew, and always double-check your work before final walkthroughs.
At Fidelighty, we support contractors who do things right—with quality fixtures, factory-direct support, and no-hassle warranties that keep your jobs running smooth and your reputation solid.
Need code-compliant lighting fixtures for your next project? We’ve got your back.
