Uploaded April 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
We find loose outlets at most home inspections. The fix is usually simple; remove the cover plate, tighten the screws, and replace the cover plate. Boom, you're done.
But not always.
If the electrical box is recessed into the wall, and tons of them are, this might not work. Electrical boxes are supposed to be installed flush with the surface of the wall, or have a maximum of 1/4" setback if the wall is noncombustible, such as drywall. This comes from section 314.20 of the National Electric Code.
We find loose outlets at most home inspections. The fix is usually simple; remove the cover plate, tighten the screws, and replace the cover plate. Boom, you're done.
But not always.
If the electrical box is recessed into the wall, and tons of them are, this might not work. Electrical boxes are supposed to be installed flush with the surface of the wall, or have a maximum of 1/4" setback if the wall is noncombustible, such as drywall. This comes from section 314.20 of the National Electric Code.
