A home inspection serves as the basis for a buyer to continue with a potential house purchase, negotiate the sale price, allow the seller to make the necessary repairs, or withdraw the sale altogether. It is also a must for purchases of newly-constructed residences and re-sales of owned houses. They are conducted by home inspectors you can trust. But exactly, what do they look for in a home inspection? A home inspection consists of a general examination of the home’s foundation, structural fixtures, insulation, central air conditioning stem, electrical system, heating system and interior plumbing, walls, floors, windows, ceilings, doors, roof, attic, and basement. The home inspector completely examines the entire house for any non-functioning components, leaks, or damages. Considering that home inspectors should leave no stone unturned as they do their work, what does a home inspection consist of? Based on standard practice, the inspector surveys the entire structure by specifically doing these: Structural Fixtures– This is the major component to that home inspectors look for. They normally check foundations, attic spaces, or any water leaks and floor cracks. Walls are also checked for molds or leakage.
Exterior Faults– An examination of the exterior part of the house allows the home inspector to know what areas need to be covered to prevent water seepage. The garage door is checked for any damages, along with the glass windows for any broken seals, trad steps, decking and settlement for any fissures.
Electrical System- Electrical components are also checked to make sure that they are functioning well, and for safety purposes. There is a need to test grounding equipment, conductors, and distribution panels for effective functionality. It is also required to indicate the exact location of carbon monoxide and smoke detectors on the inspection report.
Air Conditioning and Heating System- The home inspector needs to check the whole air conditioning and heating system to know if these are working efficiently. The filters are also examined for accumulation of dirt and other unwanted residue. Supply pipes, chimneys, chimney frames are also examined for any cases of corrosion, accumulation, or damages. Interiors and Appliances- In terms of interior components, the home inspection report should consist of counter tops, cabinets, windows, panels, doors, floors, built-in interior appliances, and stairways.
Insulation and Ventilation- In an inspection report, it is important to consider the attic crawl space insulation and vapor retarders. Venting fans that are dysfunctional and under-floor insulation, which can be accessed through the basement, is also checked for any signs of deterioration.
Plumbing- There is a necessity to test the home’s piping system like drains, vents, and waste systems. A home inspector should also examine the water entry and exit systems, interior fuel and water distributors, and the sump pump. The water is also tested for unwanted microorganisms like bacteria.
Roofing- The roof should be closely examined for loose tiles and shingles, together with the flashing for any signs of tightness. Any tree limbs that can serve as pathways for rodents are also checked along with gutter debris. Skylights and chimneys should also be examined for proper sealants, and drains should be checked for tight connections to the house.