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Topic: Power Outlets had burn marks

User: grocket007, Location: WA

Asked on: Friday, August 1, 2025 at 10:50 pm EDT
Answered on: Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 11:33 am EDT

Question: Hello, I rent out a house that was built in 1993. The tenant just moved out and a couple of the power outlets in one of the bedrooms had burn marks. The outlets in all 3 bedrooms had working and non-working outlets. The light switches did not work in all 3 bedrooms, the hallway and one of the bathrooms. He replaced all of the recepticles in that one bedroom and that fixed the rest of the outlets and all of the light switches worked after that. He didn't check the other recepticles, but is recommending to replace all of the other receptacles in the house and all of the light switches. There are about 25 remaining receptacles to replace and about 12 light switches. The cost would be $2,185.Would replacing all the other receptacles and light switches be a common and recommended thing to do?Does the cost sound reasonable?Thank you!

Okay, let's break down this situation

Is Replacing All Receptacles and Switches Common/Recommended?
Not always common, but potentially prudent in this case. Under normal circumstances, you wouldn't automatically replace all receptacles and switches just because one or two failed. However, the fact that you had multiple failures (burn marks, non-working outlets, non-working switches) in a house built in 1993 raises some red flags. Age is a factor. Electrical components do degrade over time. 30 years is a reasonable lifespan for these devices, so proactively replacing them isn't unreasonable, especially if there are signs of issues. Safety is paramount. Burn marks on receptacles are a serious concern. They indicate overheating, which can lead to fire. Even if the tenant's repair seems to have addressed the immediate problem, there could be underlying issues in the wiring or other components. Peace of mind. Replacing them all now avoids future potential electrical problems, which can be a real hassle for both you and future tenants. Modernization (optional). While you're at it, consider if you want to upgrade to newer features like USB outlets in some locations. This can be a selling point for tenants.

In
your specific situation, given the issues you've already experienced, recommending replacing all remaining receptacles and switches is a reasonable and potentially wise course of action. It's a preventative measure to avoid future problems and ensure the safety of your rental property.Does the Cost Sound Reasonable? Need More Information

A lot depends on what kind of receptacles and switches the tenant is recommending. For example, if the tenant is suggesting smart light switches that are dimmable from your phone, those switches can easily cost $30-50 a piece. If the tenant is recommending something of that kind, that can explain the higher price.

Get a Second Opinion.
I would recommend getting at least one more quote from another licensed electrician in your area. This will give you a better benchmark. Explain the situation (the history of failures, the tenant's assessment) to the other electrician so they can give you an informed estimate. Labor Costs

A significant portion of the cost will be labor. It takes time to safely remove the old devices, inspect the wiring, and install the new ones.

Material Costs

Receptacles and switches themselves can range in price. Basic, standard-grade ones are relatively inexpensive.


Permits

Some jurisdictions require electrical permits for this type of work. Make sure you know the permit requirements in your area and whether the quote includes permit fees.

Here's how to break down the cost to see if it's reasonable


Cost per receptacle/switch

Calculate the average cost per device (including both material and labor): $2,185 / (25 receptacles + 12 switches) = $59 per device. This is on the high side if the parts are basic.

Summary & Recommendations
1. Get another quote

This is the most important step. It will give you a basis for comparison and help you determine if the tenant's recommendation is fair.2.

Verify the electrician's license and insurance

Always use licensed and insured electricians.3.

Ask for a breakdown of the quote

How much is for materials? How much is for labor?4.

Consider the safety aspect:
Don't skimp on electrical work. It's not worth the risk of fire or injury.Good luck! Flag for review

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