Key points

Water-exposed components
Outlets, switches, breakers and some cable types are often replaced rather than dried and reused
Fire-exposed wiring
Heat can damage insulation on wiring well beyond the visibly burned area
Permits
Electrical repairs usually require a permit and inspection from the jurisdiction for your address
Who does it
Ask whether the electrician holds a Colorado electrical license; the state licenses electricians

How electrical work threads through the rebuild

In most reconstruction projects the electrician works in two visits. The rough-in visit happens with walls open: damaged wire runs are replaced, boxes are set, and any circuits that must be added are pulled. The building inspector checks that work before insulation and drywall. The trim visit comes near the end, when devices, cover plates and fixtures are installed and the system is tested.

Older homes add complications. A house built in the 1960s may have ungrounded circuits, a panel that is near the end of its life, or wiring methods that are no longer accepted for new work. When damaged sections are replaced, the inspector may require the new work to meet current code, and occasionally that reaches beyond the damaged area. Ordinance or law coverage, if your policy has it, may help with some of those costs.

Fire damage near the panel or service entrance often means the utility must disconnect and later reconnect service, and a final inspection is usually needed before that happens. Build those steps into the schedule so the rest of the rebuild is not waiting on power.

Questions for the contractor and electrician

  1. Which circuits will be replaced and which will be tested and kept?
  2. Will the panel be replaced, and if so, why?
  3. Who applies for the electrical permit, and under which license?
  4. Are any new circuits, outlet spacing or protection devices required by code here?
  5. Will required upgrades be listed separately from like-for-like repairs?
  6. When will the rough-in and final electrical inspections be scheduled?

Common questions

Can the drywall crew install outlets?
Electrical work generally needs to be done by a licensed electrician under permit. Ask who will do it before the job starts.

General information for Littleton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.