Safeguarding Your Older B&B: Tackle Faulty Electrical Wiring

As a property's exterior and interior components begin to wear, aging systems, including electrical systems, can fail. Electrical systems must be well-maintained, otherwise, they can become a severe hazard to the property and the inhabitants. Ensure your inn’s electrical wiring is safe with these tips.

Recognizing Electrical Issues

Since the electrical system is typically hidden behind walls, it’s easy for issues to go unnoticed until it’s too late. Look out for these signs of electrical system issues:

• Flickering lights or lights that dim when major appliances are running
• Hot to the touch light switches, outlets or electrical panels
• Repeatedly tripped circuit breakers and blown fuses
• Dysfunctional outlets
• Burning smells, which may indicate melting wire insulation

We’re here to help you reduce risks at your bed and breakfast. Download our Safety Tips Checklist to evaluate the relative safety of your property.

Causes of Electrical Failures

Poorly maintained electrical systems can be costly and deadly. Many factors contribute to the failure of aging electrical systems, including:

• Outdated Components: As technology advances, previously standard parts may no longer be acceptable. These can include:
  • Knob & Tube Wiring: Knob and tube wiring was an early standardized method of electrical wiring consisting of single-insulated copper conductors. The insulation breakdown on knob and tube wiring frequently results from overheating or mechanical abuse.
  • Aluminum Wiring: Aluminum wiring was used from the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s when copper prices were high. Unfortunately, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has since reported that aluminum wiring is 55 times more likely to create “fire hazard conditions” than copper.
  • Old Panels: While old electrical panels like the Federal Pacific Electric Company panels of the 1950s aren’t common, they still exist and can rust and break down over time. When this occurs, they no longer prevent surges, which can cause the components to melt, leading to sparks and potential fires.
• Worn-out Components: While each insurance carrier may have its own underwriting guidelines, a property’s electrical system is typically considered aged after 25 to 30 years. It’s around that time the components within the system begin to wear out and no longer work as well as they once did.
• Changes in Electrical Needs: Should the purpose of a property change, electrical systems may no longer be adequate. For example, if the property is now occupied by an inn instead of a residential homeowner, the electrical needs may be more advanced. Or the occupant may remain the same but have evolving electrical needs that the system no longer meets.

Risk Management Actions

Several issues resulting from faulty electrical systems can be prevented by periodic electrical inspections and maintenance. Older buildings should be retrofitted to replace old and unsafe wiring with more modern elements. Preventive actions include:

• Conducting System Inspections: Electrical systems should be inspected and tested by a professional, licensed electrician every three to five years. These routine inspections can help to minimize the occurrence of unexpected shutdowns.
• Hiring Licensed Electricians: When the electrical system needs an upgrade, hire licensed electricians. For a system to be considered “updated” or “upgraded,” it must meet current codes for the present occupancies. The building owner should always thoroughly document any upgrades that are completed.

Don’t Get Shocked With CBIZ Innkeepers Insurance

Investing in the proper resources can help ensure that your inn’s electrical system doesn’t compromise the integrity and safety of the building and its inhabitants. To discuss your unique risks and to learn more about coverage options, connect with a member of our team.

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.

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