Lack of GFCI plugs

A GFCI is a device intended to prevent electrical shock. A GFCI will not necessarily detect the type of electrical arcing that can cause a fire. The GFCI is designed to protect people from severe or fatal electric shocks. The GFCI also can protect against some electrical fires by detecting arcing and other faults to ground but cannot detect hazardous across-the-line arcing faults that can cause fires.

NEC 210.8 (Nation Electric Code) is the code section pertaining to GFCI's. These GFCI requirements are intended to address residential electrical wiring using 15A or 20A 120V electrical receptacles and circuits.

All bath receptacles have to have GFCI-protection, and at least one must be within 3 feet of the outside edge of each basin [210.52(D)]. The bathroom receptacle circuit cannot provide power to other outlets elsewhere in the house [210.11(C)(3)] - something that is commonly found in older homes.

Outside electrical outlets that are GFCI protected are required, at least one for a single family dwelling. 210.52(E). All outside electrical receptacles must be GFCI protected, even those receptacles found under the roof eaves and typically used for holiday lighting.