What does GFCI protection mean and why do inspectors flag it?
GFCI devices protect people from electrocution where water and electricity meet. They constantly compare outgoing and returning current and trip instantly if some leaks away, such as through a person, making them essential near sinks, tubs, and outdoors.
Older homes predate modern requirements, so it is common to find ungrounded or unprotected outlets in wet areas. This is not necessarily a code violation for when the home was built, but it is a safety upgrade inspectors routinely recommend.
The fix is straightforward. A licensed electrician can install GFCI receptacles or breakers to protect the required locations affordably. Because the safety benefit is large and the cost is modest, it is one of the most common and worthwhile inspection recommendations.
