New Construction Wiring FAQ

Wiring a new build involves every electrical decision made before drywall goes up, from panel sizing to outlet placement to code compliance. Working with an experienced new construction electrical contractor protects your investment and keeps a build on schedule.

Our Metro Detroit electricians walk custom home builders, general contractors, and developers through new construction wiring planning on nearly every project we take on.

Here's what you need to know about new construction wiring for businesses, homes, and multifamily units.

What Is Included in New Construction Wiring?

Wiring for new construction covers the full electrical scope for a building without existing wiring: panel installation, circuit runs, and outlet, switch, and lighting connections. It's installed in phases, starting with rough-in before walls close and finishing with trim-out once drywall is up.

We cover the planning side of this in more detail in our blog, how to plan electrical systems for custom luxury homes.

When Does Electrical Rough-In Happen During A Build?

Electrical rough-in happens after framing and roofing are complete but before insulation or drywall goes in. During this stage, our local electricians run cable, mount boxes, and set the panel and subpanels so everything is ready for inspection.

Passing rough-in before the walls close prevents costly tear-out work later.

Do I Need A Permit For New Construction Wiring?

Yes. Michigan requires an electrical permit for new wiring, and the work must be performed or supervised by a licensed electrical contractor. Your local building department or state inspector reviews rough-in and final work before it's signed off.

What Electrical Code Requirements Apply To New Homes?

Michigan follows the National Electrical Code with the state's Part 8 amendments. This includes dedicated circuits for major appliances, proper box fill and grounding, and AFCI and GFCI protection in bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Code editions update over time, so it's worth confirming which one applies to your project.

What’s the Difference Between Rough-In & Trim-Out?

Rough-in is the "bones" of the system: wiring, boxes, and panels installed before walls close. Trim-out happens after drywall and paint, when outlets, switches, and light fixtures go in.

Both stages typically require their own inspection before construction can move forward.

How Do AFCI & GFCI Protection Affect New Construction Wiring?

Arc-fault circuit interrupters protect against electrical fires in bedrooms and living areas. Ground-fault circuit interrupters protect people from shock in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor outlets.

Current code requires both types of protection when wiring for newly constructed homes, and we plan circuits around these requirements starting at rough-in.

Can New Construction Wiring Support Smart Home & EV Charger Needs?

Yes, and it's easier to plan for during new construction than to retrofit later. We wire dedicated circuits for EV charger installation, smart home automation, and future capacity during rough-in.

That way you're not opening finished walls again down the road.

How Do I Choose An Electrical Contractor For A New Construction Project?

Look for a licensed team with direct experience working alongside custom home builders and general contractors, plus a track record of passing inspections the first time. Ask how they coordinate scheduling with your other trades. If you’re not careful, electrical delays can hold up an entire build.

Request A Quote For Your New Construction Wiring

Our new construction electricians in Metro Detroit, MI, have wired multifamily, commercial, and custom home projects for more than a century. Whether you need us for a single home or an entire development, we’re ready to help. Request a quote or call J. Simon & Sons Electrical Contractors today at (248) 399-4640 to get started.