
Purchasing a home is a major decision, and you want to know that you’re making the right decision.
Hiring a professional home inspector is one of the best ways to do that. But what exactly does a home inspector check during their inspection? Information about the process may help you feel more confident and make better decisions concerning the state of the property you would like to buy.
Here, we will talk about the top 5 things home inspectors check during an inspection. We will tell you all about them, why they are so significant, and what they mean to you as a buyer. Let’s get started!
1- The Roof: Is It Solid?
The roof is one of the most vital parts of a house. It protects everything inside the house from natural elements like heat, rain, and snow. Therefore, a good home inspector will always start by checking the roof thoroughly.
What Does The Home Inspector Check On The Roof?
The roof inspection usually includes the following.
Condition of Shingles: The inspector checks for missing shingles, cracks, or any other damage that could lead to leakage and water damage.
Signs Of Wear And Tear: The inspector looks for signs of moss, mold, or loss of granules, which may be signs of weathering.
Chimney And Flashing: The home inspector will inspect the chimney and flashing for cracks or gaps, which could cause water leaks or pest problems.
Roof Ventilation: Proper ventilation prevents mold and mildew from forming. Another disadvantage of inadequate roof ventilation is that it can become a large problem in the future.
Roof replacement and even repair can be costly. The cost of roofing varies depending on where you live; HomeAdvisor estimates that roof replacement in the United States costs between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on the size of the house and the roof material used. Therefore, it becomes very important for you to know the roof's current state when making your buying decision.
2- Foundation: Is It Stable?
A good foundation is important for any home’s structural strength. Problems could include cracks or uneven settling, which could mean the foundation has issues. A home inspector will also carefully examine this area.
What Does The Home Inspector Check On The Foundation?
When inspecting the foundation, the home inspector will look for the following problem areas.
Visible Cracks: The inspector normally examines every wall, interior, and exterior for signs of cracks or settling.
Water Damage Or Moisture: Water in the foundation can eventually result in mold and mildew, harming health. The inspector will also look for signs of leaks or moisture in the walls.
Uneven Floors: Sagging or uneven floors may indicate a problem with the structure's foundation. The home inspector will note any noticeable floor irregularities.
Defects commonly associated with a house's foundation can be extremely expensive to repair, at times running to as much as tens of thousands of dollars. The National Association of Home Builders concludes that foundation repair costs are between $2,000 and $7,000.
3- Plumbing System: How Are You Getting On?
A home inspector will also closely examine the home’s plumbing system. Plumbing problems may result in costly repairs, water damage, and even health concerns.
What Does the Home Inspector Check in Plumbing?
Here are some common issues that may affect the plumbing system.
Water Pressure: The inspector will turn on the water to test its flow, which must be neither too strong nor too weak. Low water pressure can suggest a clog or leak, while high pressure will wear downpipes.
Leaks: The home inspector checks for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement. It does not matter how small a rupture is; water will progressively damage it in the long run.
Drains and Toilets: The inspector will flush the building’s drainage system and try to determine whether some sinks or toilets take a long time to drain.
Water Heater: The condition and age of the heating system are also taken into account. If the water heater being used is either old or ineffective, it may have to be replaced soon.
Plumbing problems could culminate in serious complications and, therefore, should not be overlooked. The highest cost of fixing a leak found on HomeAdvisor is $350, while the minimum is $150. The cost of a new water heater varies with the type and can range from $600 to $1200.
4- Electrical System: Is It Safe?
Safety should be the top concern when dealing with electrical systems. A home inspector will ensure the electrical system is safe and up to the code.
What Does The Home Inspector Check In Electrical Systems?
Common electrical issues a home inspector looks for are as follows.
Wiring: The inspector examines whether there is old or bad wiring in the house, as this can cause a fire. They will also examine for exposed, hanging, or unsecured wires.
Outlets and Switches: The home inspector will test electrical outlets and light switches to ensure they work properly and are grounded correctly.
Circuit Breaker Panel: The inspector examines the main electric panel and looks for blisters at
the switch gear or old wiring coming out of the panel. They will also ensure that circuits bear the correct name tags.
GFCI Outlets: These are specialized outlets located, for example, in kitchens and bathrooms, to prevent electrocution. The inspector makes sure they are installed wherever necessary.
Lighting and wiring problems are safety hazards and must be taken seriously. The average cost to upgrade or repair an electrical panel can range from $1,500 to $3,000 (source: HomeAdvisor). Knowing whether the home electrical system is safe and updated is also important.
5- HVAC System: Is The Home Comfortable?
This includes the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems, all of which are necessary to maintain home comfort in all seasons. Extreme temperatures require that the HVAC system be in good working condition.
What Does The Home Inspector Check In HVAC?
A home inspector will make sure the system is functioning properly and check for the following potential issues.
Furnace And Air Conditioner: The inspector will inspect the furnace to assess its working condition, and the same applies to the air conditioning system. They will also inspect the filters and ducts for signs of wear and tear and if they are dusty or filthy.
Airflow And Ventilation: The inspector checks for adequate airflow in the ducts. There should be no obstruction in the vents.
Age And Condition: An older HVAC system could require a replacement. The home inspector will note how old the system is and if there are any signs it’s reaching the end of its lifespan.
A faulty AC may require large amounts of money for repair or replacement. HomeAdvisor states that the cost of HVAC installation can range between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on the size of the house and the type of system needed.
Conclusion: Why These Inspections Matter
Now that you know what a home inspector checks during an inspection, you can see how important they are. The roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical system, and heating and air conditioning are all very important as far as safety, comfort, and the market value of the house are concerned.
Don’t gamble on the biggest investment of your life. Arrange a home inspection before buying it. At Safe House Property Inspections, we ensure that you get the comfort you deserve.
Our professional, skilled inspectors do not leave an inch of your home unexplored; you will always be informed of what we find out about your home, from the roof to the foundation and everything in between.
Secure your future with Safe House Property Inspections, your first choice for your home.
Connect with our expert team today.
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