Circuit 3
Two-prong outlets
A two-prong outlet has no ground. A three-prong cover on an old box does not add one. We test every outlet, find which can reach a ground, and protect the rest with labeled GFCI devices.
Every outlet tested, not a sample
A ground run where the walls allow it
A GFCI device and a label where they do not
When to call
Signs it is on your house
Two-slot outlets
Common in kitchens and bedrooms of older houses.
Adapters on the plug
A cheater plug hides the missing ground.
A tester that shows open ground
A three-prong outlet can still have no ground.
Computers and TVs on a bare strip
Surge strips need a ground to work.
A tingle from an appliance
Stop using it and call us. Call 911 for a fire.
A report that lists ungrounded receptacles
The usual reason for a call.
What the visit includes
What the visit includes
In this order.
- 01
Step 1: Test each outlet
With a tester, every one, and a note of which circuit it is on.
- 02
Step 2: Map the circuits
So we know which outlets share a line.
- 03
Step 3: Choose a fix per outlet
A ground wire where it can be run. A GFCI device, labeled, where it cannot.
- 04
Step 4: The written scope
Each fix on its own line.
- 05
Step 5: The work
Outlet by outlet, with the patching kept small.
- 06
Step 6: Inspection and the letter
A short letter lists each outlet and its fix, for your closing file or your carrier.
How pricing works
What moves the number for this circuit
The written quote is the price. Nothing on this page is.
What moves the number
The fix per outlet, and the walls around it.
How many outlets are ungrounded
Ground wire or GFCI device, per outlet
Plaster or drywall between the box and the panel
Attic or crawlspace access
Permit fees, if the city asks
What the quote lists
Equipment, labor, permit and utility steps on separate lines, for the circuits you choose.
Not included: drywall repair and paint
Not included: utility fees, passed through
Not included: circuits you leave for later
When you get it
In writing, after the walk-through and before any work.
The visit has a fee, told to you when you book
It comes off the work if you go ahead within 30 days
Questions
Questions about two-prong outlets
Can I swap in three-prong outlets myself?
Not on their own. A three-prong outlet with no ground behind it is mislabeled. A GFCI device is the usual allowed fix, with a label that says there is no equipment ground.
Do I have to rewire everything?
No. Often we ground only the circuits you use most and protect the rest.
Will my insurer care?
Some do. Ask your agent. We cannot promise what a carrier will accept.
Will you cut my walls open?
As little as we can. We try attics, basements and existing boxes first, and tell you before we cut.
What do I do about a shock?
Stop using the appliance and unplug it. Call 911 for a fire. Then call us.
Next step
Send us the outlet report
Photos of the report or the inside of the panel are fine.