As a home inspector, I want to see a cover on an electric panel. While I might not get excited if I find a cover held in place with five screws, when there should be six, I have a concern when a large panel cover is hanging loose with only one or two screws in place. When an inspector finds a cover that is poorly fastened, well that is a problem that is noted -- problem one. So when does that problem turn into two problems? The answer is simple: It becomes a second problem when the missing screws are found to be loose in the bottom of the panel. An electric panel is not supposed to be a storage reservoir and most certainly not for metal objects that might shift around over time. Problem two! The good news here is that both problems are easily resolved with one solution: Have someone who can do the work in a safe manner take the loose screws and put them in place at the cover and viola, both problems solved. It would be nice if all problems were so easy to remedy. Steven L. Smith Bellingham WA Home Inspections 
When Does One Defect Become Two?
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10 comments • Steven L. Smith, Bellingham, Wa. Home Inspector • August 23 2009 02:37PMComments
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Hi Steve~ You make it all seem so simple! I guess it would have to be done by an electrician?...
Vickie,
That is certainly who I would suggest should do it in the report. You bet! Normally, however, it would be done by a handyman type or even the homeowner. It does not take a rocket scientist but we sure do not want anyone getting a serious shock so I do not want to downplay the level of experience required to do it safely.
Looks like they brought some beach sand home and stored it in the box!
Mr. Boss,
But you tolerate Nutsy running around with loose screws?
Ms. Kate
PS If only an electrician could fix him.
Steve, I have a feeling that is one problem I might "fix":)
Looks like a job for "Super Nutsy"!!!! "I can fix those loose screws!", says our hero...
Helping you live your American dream...
If I find the screws in the bottom of the panel I just put them all back when I screw the cover back on.
I agree with most of you. I have just simply put them all back in when I am done, and then I explain why they all need to be in place.
I sometimes would have put the screws in too. However, in a similar vein, I once ran across a seller who had very definite ideas on something. The type of guy that says: "If I wanted six screws in there, I would have put six screws in there." For that reason I tend to leave everything as close to exactly as I found it as I can. If the seller is there, I might ask if it is okay to put the screws in.
I like the ones where you have to cut the duct tape to get the cover off (we don't need no stinkin screws).