In the excitement of building a new house it is easy to gloss over some of the finer details. You should take care that your electrical system doesn't get forgotten about. Your builder has an electrician that he uses, and there is good reason they work together, but just because he is working on your house doesn't mean he is working for you. He won't be able to read your mind and so I've put together a list of things you should discuss.

1. Outlets, Outlets, Outlets

In a well designed home you don't need to plug everything into a single outlet. You should start with what the local, state and nation electrical codes say and then add more outlets everywhere you need them. If you have a doubt, add it.

2. Flat panel TVs and art lights

When you mount a tv on the wall, you'll need to determine how to plug it in. Make sure you plan ahead and have an electrician add a outlet at the correct height. If you aren't sure which wall it will go on, you can have a regular outlet installed on the bottom of the wall and have them add another outlet later. To make this easier for them, add an outlet inside the correct "stud bay" so they don't have to drill through the framing. If you're unsure, your builder or low-voltage designer can assist you.

3. Floor plugs and lamps

In a typical living room layout it is wise to consider outlets installed in the floor. Most people will have a couch with lamps on either side, and those lamps need electricity. You can have the floor plug placed under the couch and the lamp cords will no longer be a tripping hazard. As with regular outlets, more is better. Measure two-thirds the distance of the room from the fireplace or entertainment center.

4. Breaker Panels and printed labels

Look at a completed home your builder did and check to see if you can read the labels in the breaker panel. Are they clear? Can you tell which circuits control the various items? Having clearly labeled breaker panels makes service easier when you need it. Have the electrician write the labels while it is fresh in his memory and then apply new printed labels when the house is ready to close. Check where the breaker panel is in your new house and that you can find all the local GFCI outlets.

5. Smoke detectors and Fire alarms

For your safety and convenience get smoke detectors that are connect directly to your electrical system. It is common for batteries to fail and for people to ignore the waring noises they make. Be sure to have enough smoke detectors, correctly place, and test them regularly.

6. Electrical Codes

Follow all local, state and national electrical codes. Use a reputable company that has properly trained and licensed employees. Your electrical system should be virtually trouble-free when professional designed and installed.