If you just got your home inspection report and saw notes about missing or outdated GFCI protection, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common things we find during inspections, and it’s also one of the easiest and most important safety upgrades a homeowner can make. Let me explain why.

What Is a GFCI and What Does It Do?

GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. It’s a special type of electrical outlet or breaker that shuts off power if it senses electricity flowing in a way it shouldn’t—like through water or a person. That can happen when you’re using a hair dryer near the sink, or plugging in a tool outside when it’s raining.

Basically, a GFCI is designed to protect people from electric shock. It reacts in a fraction of a second and can literally save your life.

How GFCI Rules Have Changed Over Time

GFCI protection has been added gradually to the electrical code over the past few decades, as we’ve learned more about how and where electric shock hazards happen. Here’s a quick breakdown of when and where GFCIs became required:

1971 – GFCIs first required for outdoor receptacles.

1975 – Required near swimming pools.

1978 – Required in bathrooms.

1987 – Required in garage outlets.

1990 – Required in kitchen countertops.

1993 – Required in unfinished basements and crawlspaces.

1996 – Required in wet bar sinks and all exterior outlets.

2005 – Required in laundry areas.

2008 – Required in all kitchen outlets (not just those serving countertops).

2014 – Required in dishwashers.

2017 – Expanded to include more locations, including specific outlets within 6 feet of a sink.

2020 and 2023 updates – GFCI requirements now cover practically every outlet in garages, crawlspaces, basements, laundry areas, outdoors, and anywhere water is present.

So if your home was built before, say, the mid-90s and hasn’t had a major electrical upgrade since, chances are it’s missing some GFCI protection by today’s standards.

Why Homes Didn’t Always Have This Protection

It’s not that older homes were built wrong—they were just built to the standards of the time. Electrical codes evolve as we learn from real-world accidents and improve safety technology. GFCIs didn’t even exist before the 1960s, and it takes a while for new safety standards to become universal.

These days, GFCI protection is required in:

Bathrooms, Kitchens, Laundry rooms, Garages, Basements and crawlspaces, Outside outlets, Anywhere within 6 feet of a sink, Dishwashers, Spa tubs or whirlpool tubs

These aren’t just suggestions—they’re part of the National Electrical Code (NEC), which guides electricians and inspectors nationwide.

How to Tell If You Have GFCI Protection

Look for outlets with a “Test” and “Reset” button—that’s your typical GFCI outlet. Sometimes, protection is provided at the breaker panel instead. If you’re not sure, a licensed electrician or your home inspector can test it for you. I also test GFCIs during every inspection.

What If You Don’t Have Them?

If your home is missing GFCI protection, it doesn’t mean you’re in trouble—but it does mean you’re at greater risk, especially in wet or damp areas. Luckily, updating your outlets is usually straightforward and not very expensive. A qualified electrician can often do several upgrades in just a couple of hours.

As a home inspector, my job is to help you live safely and comfortably in your home. I don’t make or enforce the rules—I just help you understand them so you can make smart decisions. GFCI protection is a small investment that makes a big difference in safety. Whether you’re moving into a new home or have been in yours for years, it’s worth taking a few minutes to check this off your list.

If you saw a note in your inspection report about GFCIs, now you know why. Got more questions? Reach out anytime—I’m here to help. Stay safe and enjoy your new home! – Home Inspector Dan