The Top 7 Electrical Code Violations and How to Avoid Them in Your Business
By Eric Gandler Clifton Park Development Electric
If you’re a business owner, staying up to code with your electrical system isn’t just about compliance—it’s about safety, liability, and protecting your investment. At Eric Gandler Development Electric in Clifton Park, we frequently help businesses address code violations that could have easily been avoided with a little knowledge and the right professional support.
Here are 7 of the most common commercial electrical code violations, and how your business can steer clear of them:
1. Improper Grounding
Faulty or missing grounding is one of the most dangerous violations. It can lead to shock hazards, fire risks, or damaged equipment. Grounding ensures excess electricity is safely discharged—so every commercial property must have proper ground connections.
Solution: Have a licensed electrician inspect your grounding system during regular maintenance.
2. Overloaded Circuits
Adding too many appliances or machines to a single circuit can cause overheating and tripped breakers.
Solution: Make sure circuits are designed to handle the electrical load of your equipment, and upgrade panels as needed.
3. Exposed or Damaged Wiring
Exposed wires or damaged insulation puts your team at risk and often violates safety codes.
Solution: All wiring should be enclosed in proper conduit or covered by protective materials. Damaged wires should be replaced immediately.
4. Missing Junction Box Covers
Leaving junction boxes uncovered exposes wiring and creates serious safety risks.
Solution: Ensure all electrical boxes are securely covered—this is one of the simplest fixes with the biggest safety impact.
5. Improper Extension Cord Use
Using extension cords as permanent wiring is a big no-no. It’s not just against code—it’s a fire hazard.
Solution: Hire a professional to install permanent outlets or additional wiring to handle your electrical needs properly.
6. Incorrectly Installed Outlets or Switches
Loose, reversed, or miswired outlets and switches are common, especially after DIY installations.
Solution: Always use a licensed electrician to install or inspect new switches and receptacles.
7. Outdated Electrical Panels
Older panels, like those with fuses or Zinsco/FPE brands, are no longer up to modern code and can be unreliable or unsafe.
Solution: Consider upgrading your panel to meet today’s power demands and safety standards.
Don’t Let Violations Cost You
Electrical code violations can result in failed inspections, fines, and worst of all, dangerous working conditions. At Eric Gandler Development Electric, we work with businesses across Clifton Park to ensure their systems are safe, reliable, and fully compliant.
Need an inspection or repair? Contact us today and we’ll help you stay powered and protected.