A double-tapped breaker occurs when two or more electrical wires are connected to a single circuit breaker terminal designed for only one conductor. This is one of the most frequently cited electrical defects during home inspections, and for good reason. When multiple wires share a terminal not rated for that configuration, the connection can loosen over time due to thermal expansion and contraction. Loose connections generate heat, which can melt wire insulation, damage the breaker, and in severe cases ignite surrounding materials. The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires each breaker terminal to accept only the number of conductors it is rated for. Most standard residential breakers are rated for a single wire. While some manufacturers produce breakers with terminals designed for two conductors, these are the exception rather than the rule. During a typical home inspection, double-tapped breakers are flagged as a safety concern that warrants correction by a licensed electrician. Understanding this defect helps homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals make informed decisions about electrical safety and necessary repairs before closing on a property.