Infrared Electrical Inspections: What Facility Managers Should Budget For

Electrical failures are one of the leading causes of unplanned downtime, fires, and costly repairs in commercial and industrial facilities. As standards evolve and insurance scrutiny increases, infrared electrical inspections have shifted from a “best practice” to a budgeted necessity—especially under the updated NFPA 70B standard.

For facility managers, one of the most common questions is simple but critical:What should we budget for an infrared electrical inspection?

At Assured NDT, we work with facility managers across the U.S. to deliver cost-effective, compliant infrared inspections that provide real ROI—not just thermal images. Below is a clear, realistic guide to infrared electrical inspection cost, what drives pricing, and how to budget intelligently.

Photo by Tom Claes on Unsplash

What Is an Infrared Electrical Inspection?

An infrared electrical inspection uses thermal imaging cameras to identify abnormal heat patterns in energized electrical systems. Excess heat often indicates developing issues such as:

• Loose or corroded connections

• Overloaded circuits

• Failing breakers or fuses

• Imbalanced phases

• Insulation breakdown

• Deteriorating electrical components

Because inspections are non-contact and performed while systems remain energized, issues can be identified before failure occurs, without disrupting operations.

Why Infrared Electrical Inspections Are Now Mandatory Under NFPA 70B

With the 2023 update to NFPA 70B, infrared thermography is now required at least annually as part of a documented condition-based maintenance (CBM) program.

This means facilities must:

• Perform annual infrared electrical inspections

• Document findings and corrective actions

• Use qualified thermographers

• Retain reports for compliance, audits, and insurance

As a result, budgeting for infrared inspections is no longer optional—it’s a compliance requirement.

Infrared Electrical Inspection Cost: What to Expect

While pricing varies, most facility managers can expect the following realistic budget ranges:

Typical Infrared Electrical Inspection Cost

• Small commercial buildings: $1,500 – $2,500

• Mid-size facilities: $2,500 – $5,000

• Large industrial or multi-building sites: $5,000 – $10,000+

These ranges reflect professional inspections performed by certified thermographers using calibrated equipment and NFPA 70B-compliant reporting.

What Factors Influence Infrared Electrical Inspection Cost?

1. Facility Size and Complexity

Larger facilities with more panels, switchgear, MCCs, and transformers require more inspection time and analysis.

2. Number of Electrical Assets

The more equipment inspected, the higher the cost—but also the higher the value.

3. Voltage Levels

Medium- and high-voltage systems require additional safety planning, PPE, and specialized expertise.

4. Inspection Scope

Basic scans cost less than comprehensive programs that include:

• Severity ranking

• Delta-T analysis

• Repair prioritization

• Trend comparison

• CBM documentation

5. Scheduling Requirements

After-hours, weekend, or shutdown coordination may impact pricing—but often saves far more by avoiding downtime.

Why Infrared Inspections Deliver Strong ROI

While the upfront infrared electrical inspection cost is modest, the return is substantial.

Facilities routinely see:

• 5–10x return on investment

• Reduced emergency repairs

• Fewer electrical failures

• Lower insurance risk exposure

• Extended equipment lifespan

• Improved safety and compliance

A single avoided electrical failure often pays for years of inspections.

Budgeting Best Practices for Facility Managers

To budget effectively:

1. Include infrared inspections as an annual operating expense, not a one-time cost

2. Align inspection timing with NFPA 70B requirements

3. Prioritize high-criticality electrical assets

4. Use inspection data to guide capital planning

5. Partner with a provider who delivers actionable reports, not just images

Why Facility Managers Choose Assured NDT

Assured NDT provides infrared electrical inspections designed for compliance, clarity, and cost control.

We offer:

• Certified Level II & III thermographers

• NFPA 70B-compliant inspections

• Clear severity-based reporting

• Budget-friendly inspection programs

• Nationwide service coverage

• Minimal disruption to operations

Our goal is simple: help facility managers spend less reacting to failures and more preventing them.

Plan Your Infrared Electrical Inspection Budget with Confidence

If you’re planning your maintenance budget or preparing for NFPA 70B compliance, Assured NDT can help you build a smart, cost-effective infrared inspection program.

Contact Assured NDT to request a quote or consultation www.assuredndt.com/contact

FAQs: Infrared Electrical Inspection Cost

1. How much does an infrared electrical inspection cost?

Most infrared electrical inspections range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on facility size, equipment count, and inspection scope.

2. Are infrared electrical inspections required by NFPA 70B?

Yes. NFPA 70B requires annual infrared inspections for energized electrical systems as part of a condition-based maintenance program.

3. Can inspections be performed without shutting down equipment?

Yes. Infrared electrical inspections are non-contact and performed while systems remain energized.

4. How often should facilities budget for infrared inspections?

At minimum, annually. High-risk or mission-critical facilities may inspect more frequently.

5. Do infrared inspections reduce insurance risk?

Yes. Many insurers view infrared inspections as proof of proactive risk management and may request reports during underwriting or renewal.