According to a new law going into effect July 25th, property flippers must use certified electricians when doing wiring improvements to homes or commercial buildings sold within a year of purchase.

The law is designed to protect homebuyers from improper electrical wiring, including the installation of telecommunications wiring such as cables jacks, phone jacks, or internet connections.

L&I electrical inspectors reported at least 600 instances in the past year dealing with improper electrical wiring at flipped properties.

In one instance, a homeowners had to pay around $4,100 ti bring their residence up to code.

The law will not effect long term property owners who make repairs on their own home or business, as property owners are typically exempt from electrical licensing and certification requirements.