What is an electrical safety inspection (VBF)?
An electrical safety inspection is a detailed examination of the entire electrical system of a home and may only be performed by an appropriately qualified and authorised inspector. The inspection covers everything accessible, from the electricity meter through the consumer unit and wiring to sockets and lighting points.
The VBF combines two previously familiar inspections. The electric-shock protection inspection checks whether the installation protects against electric shock, whether the protection works, whether protective devices disconnect in time and whether the protective conductor is adequate. The standards-compliance inspection, with its fire-safety focus, examines whether the design of the installation and the condition of cables, connections and protective devices present a fire risk.
The inspection rests on two pillars: detailed visual examination and instrument measurements. The visual examination includes checking the condition of cables, connections, distribution boards and accessories, the presence and suitability of protective devices, and whether the installation is compliant. This is supplemented by measurements with calibrated instruments, including insulation resistance, fault-loop impedance and the operation of the residual-current device (RCD); the numerical results are evaluated and recorded. At the end of the inspection, a classification report is produced. As a document with legal effect, it certifies the condition of the installation and lists any defects and their repair deadlines item by item.
Why do homes need an electrical safety inspection?
- Because it protects our lives, our loved ones and our property. Electrical faults, damaged insulation and missing protection can cause electric shock or fire. Inspection helps identify dangerous defects before an accident.
- Because it gives you a clear picture. The classification report provides a precise, documented picture of the actual condition of the installation. You will know what is in order, what must be repaired and by what deadline. It is not guesswork, but a document based on a professional inspection and measurement results.
- Because the law requires it. Hungarian Decree 40/2017 (XII. 4.) NGM generally requires an inspection every six years. On sale or letting, an inspection is required if no certificate dated within the preceding six years is available. The periodic inspection exemption applies only to dwellings not used as rented accommodation, with overcurrent protection of at most 32 A per phase and RCD protection rated at no more than 30 mA. This does not replace the requirements triggered by sale or letting.
- A documented assessment of defects. An unsatisfactory result does not necessarily prevent a sale, but it does not remove the obligation to correct faults or eliminate danger. Equipment presenting an immediate risk to life or of fire must be disconnected until the fault is corrected. Providing the report supports disclosure; it does not automatically exclude liability or warranty claims.
- Because the insurer may also request it. An insurer may request inspection documents following a loss. Coverage depends on the policy, circumstances and applicable rules; a missing report does not automatically mean refusal in every case.
Working does not always mean safe
A socket can work despite a missing protective conductor. Incorrect connections can overheat, and an installed RCD may be incorrectly wired or fail to trip. Inspection assesses protection of life and property, not merely whether appliances operate.
EPH inspection (verification of equipotential bonding)
Protective equipotential bonding reduces dangerous potential differences between accessible conductive parts. Required connections depend on the installation. We inspect their condition and measure continuity. For gas installations and appliance replacement, reports must follow the distributor’s and manufacturer’s requirements.