Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Hover over the different areas of the house to learn more about home inspections

Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Structure

Your inspector will do a visual inspection regarding the current condition of the overall structure and foundation of the property. They will note any issues in the report, including cracks, sagging or settling. Foundational issues can make or break a home and repairs can be expensive and extensive. Knowing about your property’s foundation is key in saving you time, money and stress.

Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Basement/Crawlspace

Your inspector will do a visual inspection of all basement and crawlspace areas and note problems such as leaks, seepage or rot due to water damage, improper foundation piers or damaged ductwork in the report. This knowledge could save you from an unexpected basement flood or detrimental foundation settling down the road!

Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Front Porch

Your inspector will do a visual inspection of all exterior walls of the property, including garages, porches, balconies and fences. Outbuildings and detached garages can also be inspected for an additional fee. Your inspector will note things such as any damage to the exterior façade, loose bricks or damaged siding, any drainage issues they see that may cause water damage, and any trees whose proximity to the structure may pose a hazard.

Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Kitchen

Your inspector will evaluate the condition and operation of any appliances in the home, including ovens, ranges, laundry machines, refrigerators and freezers. The inspector will note any damaged or inoperable appliances, as well as any items that have outlasted their lifespan and need to be replaced.

Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Living Room

Your inspector will do a visual inspection of all interiors, including the window seals, door functions, staircase and banister safety, flooring irregularities or warping and fireplace condition. Keep in mind, inspectors will not move furniture or belongings during an inspection, so if there are any specific areas you want inspected, be sure to request the seller pull all belongings and furniture away from these areas.

Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Bathroom

Your inspector will test the condition and functionality of all interior plumbing throughout the property, including toilets, sinks, tubs, showers and water heaters. The inspector will note on the report any leaks, improper installation of plumbing equipment, or drainage issues they find.

Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Bedroom

Your inspector will check the electric breaker panel for any safety hazards and visually inspect wiring throughout the property. They will note any deteriorated or improper wiring they can see, as well as check all plug functions, ceiling fans, smoke and CO2 monitors and junction boxes. Keep in mind, inspectors cannot see through walls, so any electrical concerns you have that are not visually accessible will need to be evaluated by a licensed electrician.

Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Attic

Your inspector will visually inspect the attic, whether finished or unfinished and note things such as any interior roof damage, water damage or interior leaks, missing or deteriorated insulation and ventilation concerns. You inspector will also inspect the functionality and condition of any appliances located in the attic, such as furnaces and AC units and associated ductwork, noting any damage, improper installation or airflow concerns. Remember, inspectors will not move furniture or belongings, so talk to the seller and make sure the attic and appliances are accessible and any areas you have concerns about are cleared of belongings.

Why Do You Need A Home Inspection

Roof

You inspector will always do a visual inspection of the roof from the ground. If weather and structure permits, your inspector may also get onto the roof and do a closer visual inspection from there. The inspector will notify you of any defective or improper flashings, damaged shingles and any uneven or sagging roof areas that could create water traps or leaks. Your inspector will also inform you of any tree limb contact that could pose a hazard as well as any gutter issues they can see. Roof inspections are one of the most important parts of a home inspection, as roof imperfections can lead to much more significant problems such as leaks and structure damage if not maintained properly.