- Drew Sleezer
- 14 January, 2026
- CommercialMaintenanceResidential
Oklahoma weather is unpredictable — from ice storms to tornadoes — and long power outages are not uncommon. A standby generator can keep your home, business, or rental property running safely when the grid goes down.
But generators that sit idle for months or years can fail just when you need them most. Oil leaks, fuel contamination, battery corrosion, or faulty transfer switches are common issues that can prevent a system from starting.
A standby generator inspection is a non-invasive service that checks all critical components — electrical, fuel, and mechanical — this provides information about condition of the equipment so you can make informed decisions.
This inspection is especially valuable for:
- Home or commercial buyers verifying condition as part of their due diligence.
- Homeowners who depend on reliable power for comfort or medical equipment
- Commercial property managers and investors protecting income-producing assets
Who Benefits from a Generator Inspection?
Home Buyers & Sellers
If a property includes a built-in or whole-home generator, you’ll want to know if it’s functional and installed safely. Buyers can negotiate repairs or concessions; sellers can show maintenance documentation to increase buyer confidence.
Real Estate Agents & Realtors
Recommending generator inspections as part of due diligence protects your client financially and reduces post-closing complaints about non-working systems. It demonstrates thoroughness and professionalism.
Homeowners & Investors
Regular inspections prevent unpleasant surprises and can extend the life of expensive equipment. Investors avoid costly downtime or tenant complaints during outages.
Commercial or Multi-Unit Properties
When power loss means business interruption, loss of refrigeration, or data loss, generator reliability is non-negotiable. Inspections support risk management and compliance.
What Does a Standby Generator Inspection Cover?
Here’s what you can expect from an Assured Home Inspectors (AHI) generator inspection:
Visual Examination & Access Check
- Enclosure condition, corrosion, and security
- Clearance from structures and vegetation
- Evidence of oil, fuel, or coolant leaks
- Exhaust routing and ventilation safety
Electrical Connections & Transfer Switch
- Verify wiring integrity, grounding, and conduit condition
- Inspect the automatic transfer switch (ATS) for proper operation
- Check for proper isolation from the utility line to prevent back-feeding
Startup and Functional Test
- Simulate a power outage or manually engage the system
- Observe automatic start-up sequence
- Confirm stable operation and proper switchover timing
Battery and Charging System
- Inspect terminals, corrosion, voltage levels, and charger function
- Verify proper battery maintenance (age, load capability)
Fuel System & Pressure Testing
- Examine fuel supply (natural gas, propane, or diesel)
- Check for leaks, sediment, or water contamination
- Verify fuel pressure if applicable.
Cooling and Lubrication System
- Check oil levels, coolant, belts, and hoses
- Look for overheating, cracks, or dry rot
Load Test
- Apply load to measure voltage, amperage, and frequency stability
- Assess how the unit performs under actual demand
Documentation and Reporting
- Photos of key components and defects
- Condition summary, recommendations, and maintenance tips
- Shared digitally for easy access or contractor review
Post-Repair Validation (Optional)
- After service or repair, AHI can re-inspect to confirm if repairs were completed.
Common Issues Found During Generator Inspections.
| Defect Type | What It Means | Risk / Impact |
| Corroded battery or loose cables | Weak or no start capability | Generator fails to start in outage |
| Fuel leak or lack of sediment trap | Loose fittings or potential for debris to enter the gas valve | Engine damage, fire hazard |
| Faulty transfer switch | Switch fails to isolate utility or transfer load | Dangerous back-feed or system failure |
| Low oil or coolant | Lack of maintenance or leaks | Overheating, engine seizure |
| Improper grounding or wiring | There’s a safety concern | Electrical shock or fire hazard |
| Exhaust blockage or corrosion | Obstructed or damaged exhaust path | Carbon monoxide hazard |
| Aged equipment | Higher level of service may be needed | Cost of repairs increases with older equipment and reliability decreases |
Catching these early helps avoid catastrophic failures when outages occur.
Cost, Timing & Limitations.
$125+Generator inspections is $125 for most residential units. Commercial units can be significantly higher based on the type of system, the complexity, and the requirements of the system. Pricing depends on system size, access, and whether load testing is included. AHI provides clear quotes before work begins. |
~ 30 MinutesMost generator inspections take approximately 30 minutes to complete, but longer may be needed depending on accessibility, complexity, and number of systems. |
Limitations & Caveats
The goal is to identify present condition and safety, not predict lifetime performance. |
$125+
Generator inspections is $125 for most residential units. Commercial units can be significantly higher based on the type of system, the complexity, and the requirements of the system. Pricing depends on system size, access, and whether load testing is included. AHI provides clear quotes before work begins.
~ 30 Minutes
Most generator inspections take approximately 30 minutes to complete, but longer may be needed depending on accessibility, complexity, and number of systems.
Limitations & Caveats
- If access is restricted (rooftops, locked enclosures), inspection may be limited
- Deep mechanical disassembly or fuel sampling is not included
- Some performance issues may appear only under long-duration load testing
- Results reflect condition at time of inspection — ongoing maintenance is still required
The goal is to identify present condition and safety, not predict lifetime performance.
Tulsa & Eastern Oklahoma Considerations.
Weather & Grid Reliability
Ice storms, tornadoes, and wind events often cause extended outages in Green Country. Generator readiness is essential for safety and comfort.
Fuel Supply Issues
Natural gas pressure fluctuations during widespread outages can affect performance. Propane and diesel require storage and maintenance to prevent contamination.
Permits and Safety
Permanent generator installations require electrical permits and inspections by your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). If ownership changes, buyers should confirm permits were properly pulled and closed out.
FAQs Standby Generator Inspections
How AHI Positions Standby Generator Inspections in Our Services
At Assured Home Inspectors, we understand that a generator’s value lies in its reliability. We:
- Include generator inspections as an add-on for home buyers, sellers, and commercial clients
- Verify function and safety without bias — AHI is fully independent
- Provide photo and video documentation you can share with electricians or service providers
- Recommend retesting after major storms, maintenance, or extended idle periods
By integrating generator inspections into your inspection package, we help you protect your investment and ensure power when you need it most.
Summary & Takeaways
A generator that won’t start when the lights go out defeats its purpose. A professional standby generator inspection gives you confidence that your system will perform when you need it most.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a property in Tulsa or Eastern Oklahoma, AHI can help you identify problems early and keep your backup power ready.
To schedule your generator inspection or learn more, call or text 918.853.5113, schedule an inspection online, or request a free quote. Let Assured Home Inspectors give you peace of mind — rain, ice, or shine.
