I saw this at an inspection this afternoon. Any suggestions on what to include in my commentary other than pointing the aluminum wiring out to the client?
Looks like a FPE panel also.
http://www.inspect-ny.com/fpe/fpepanel.htm
You have any pics of the “Aluminum wires” to be sure?
Federal Pacific and AL conductors is a scary combination.
Give them a copy of this PDF for the AL wiring. . .
Yes, can you see them in this photo?
Jeff,
Thanks for the PDF. This was found in a condo complex that I had performed inspections in before and found the same branch wiring and system. An electrician cleared the last one that I did where I brought up the aluminum wiring. What would you say to the realtor, who is also the client in a case like this? It was the same realtor as with the last unit only this unit is for her and the last one was for one of her clients.
Hard to tell because of the flash. But I believe you. Call it out for further review. Solid AL conductors should be evaluated for proper connection at outlet and switches. Bingo Bango. Here is some good verbiage for your report:
Attention. Buyer information. Inspector noted solid aluminum (AL) conductors at one or more branch circuit breakers in the electrical panel. AL wire has a higher expansion and contraction rate (approx. 30%) then copper and over time may become loose at its connections. The inspector recommends a licensed electrician review the AL branch circuit wires in the home for approved connections with receptacles and switches and make appropriate corrections or repair recommendations if necessary. Noted for occupant fire safety.
Thanks Peter. I will use that. Much appreciated.
Peter - you need to change then to than 
I always recommend that outlets be “retrofitted” with copalum crimps when I see solid AL conductors.
Got it, thanks for the catch Jeff.
what are the years that aluminum wires were used? Did an inspection today on a house built in 1987 that had what looked like solid aluminum branch wire.
Late 60’s to mid 70’s.
Generally from 1965 to 1972 was the main years…guess some could have been laying around for people to use later…but those are the years for the most part.
Scott… was it for the lighting circuits, or just for the appliances??
FYI, I don’t recommend a specific products(by name). Example: Aluminum wiring was once OK(still is, but let’s not go there). Now what if you recommended a knob and tube system to be upgraded to the ‘new’ AL-NM, does that make your ‘professional’ recommendation liable for bad advice? Let the electrician work with the home owner.
Especially since I’ve become a fan of: http://www.alumiconn.com/ the price “plus labor” makes it in reach of most ‘older’ homes/homeowners. 
tom
both