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If only half of your outlet works, there are usually two possible causes: faulty wiring or a half-hot outlet. The first thing you'll want to do is check the circuit breaker panel to ensure that it's not tripped. If your circuit breaker isn't tripped, turn off the electricity and inspect the wiring to see if anything has come loose or corroded. 

If you have a half-hot outlet, it means half of the outlet is controlled by a switch somewhere on the same circuit, which should be nearby. This is an intentional electrical design commonly found in rooms without overhead lights.

Yes, a water leak poses a major fire risk at your home because water is a conductor of electricity. Water that comes into contact with sparks or electrical wires can instantly ignite flammable materials. Additionally, any type of exposure to water can cause wires and other electrical components within your home to corrode. When assessing categories of water damage, it's important to know that even a small amount of moisture near wiring could cause sparks that lead to a fire.

Full home electrical inspections are mandatory if you’re buying a new home, but if you’re just looking for a safety checkup, you have some flexibility. If you don’t have any concerns and your property is relatively new, a basic inspection is usually sufficient. If it’s been a long time since your home was last inspected, or it’s an older home, a full home inspection can help catch any concerns that may fly under the radar.

It’s generally not recommended to run electric to a shed above ground, and you should instead run electric lines underground via a conduit. This job, like all electrical jobs, is best left to a pro, as they’ll need to ensure everything is installed safely and that they don’t run into any other utility lines underground.