Ever Wonder: How Invasive Are Home Inspections?
by Target Home Inspections
Filed under Home Inspection Companies, Home Inspection News
If you’re new to the home inspection process, then you may wonder: How invasive are home inspections? The fact is that a majority of the home inspection process is conducted through observation of details. The home inspector does require access to the home and general areas, however home inspections are not invasive on your privacy.
Why Get A Home Inspection
A professional inspector comes to your home, commercial real estate or property with a check list. Home inspections are conducted for many reasons, some of which are:
· Prior to purchasing a home, commercial real estate or property, to verify the overall condition before finalizing the purchase.
· Prior to putting your home, commercial real estate or property on the market to sell. This can be done for different reasons, including using the inspection as a selling tool or finding areas of opportunity to improve before listing.
· To make your home more energy efficient and improve the value of your home.
Home Inspection Check List
Each home inspector comes with a list of things that need to be checked and observed. A great deal of the inspection is done through observation; however some items of the check list require verifying that things work. The inspector will need access to all parts of the home to conduct the home inspection. Here are the major categories used in the check list reporting system and some of the details the inspector will observe:
· Foundation and Structure.
o Report any visual defects in the structure
o Observe any damage or sagging in the flooring
o Observe exposed areas around sub-floors and slabs for water infiltrations
· Electrical System.
o Observe condition of components and condition of electrical panel
o Observe and ensure there is proper grounding
o Observe condition of visible wiring
· Heating and Cooling.
· Observe boiler and combustion chamber conditions
· Ensure thermostat works properly
· Observe condition of ductwork
· Property and Grounds.
o Observe drainage system
o Observe condition of siding
o Observe condition of retaining walls
· Roof and Attic.
o Observe prior repairs conducted
o Observe condition of shingles
o Observe condition of overhangs and soffits
· Chimney and Fireplace.
o Observe operation of dampers
o Observe creosote levels
o Observe condition of mortar
Home inspections are necessary to be fully aware of the condition of your home for many reasons. Whether you are buying, selling or improving your home, knowing the true condition of your property pays off much more than not knowing until it is too late. The process of a home inspection is not invasive on your privacy and a true professional will make you feel comfortable while he goes through his check list.
