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What Does Home Inspection Include?

By August 14, 2019March 10th, 2021Uncategorized

Buying a house is one of the most exciting yet intimidating decisions of your life as it is probably your biggest purchase involving huge financial commitments. So, before you shed out heaps of your hard-earned money into the potential dream house you’ve been longing for, make sure to get a home inspection done. Appointing a qualified home inspector for the same is an important first step.
A home inspector is someone who visually inspects the structure and components of your potential home and provides a written report citing any problems or issues observed for further evaluation. But, what exactly is covered in a home inspection? Mentioned below are the various elements covered in a home inspection.

Structural Elements

Structural elements are one of the most significant aspects of all that is included in a home inspection. Some of the things taken care of are the construction of the visible foundation, any evidence of sagging or bowing of the structure and window alignment.

Electrical System and Safety Elements

From operating fire and carbon monoxide alarms, fire sprinklers to the condition of stairs, hand and guardrails, and garage door openers are what a home inspection includes in the case of electrical systems. Additionally, a home inspector is on the lookout for up-to-code condition and type of visible wiring of electrical systems and proper functioning of its elements like circuit breakers, outlets, light fixtures and fans.

Exterior surfaces and Grounds

Home inspection for exterior surfaces includes looking for correct clearance between ground and siding material, condition of exterior paint or siding, and properly working lights and electrical outlets. On the other hand, in the case of grounds, proper drainage, any leaks from septic tank, and condition of the house’s driveways, fences, and sidewalks are taken care of.

Roof and Chimney

Deteriorated shingles, any repairs/patches to flat roofs, are covered under home inspection for roof and chimney. In case of the elements underneath the shingles are moist or rotted, repairs are likely to be requested. Moreover, it is also made sure that the chimney is watertight, and that bricks and mortar are in a good working condition.

Interior Plumbing

The home inspector will also check if all the toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and showers are functioning properly. Moreover, the inspector checks the septic system for drainage problem if any.

All Electrical Appliances

All electrical appliances like stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave, washer and dryer, furnace, air conditioner, water heater, etc. are covered in a standard home inspection package.

Basement and Garage

Buyers and inspectors will closely examine the walls and floors and look for any signs of water intrusion or damage. The inspector uses a device to determine the amount of moisture present in space as this moisture deteriorates building materials and attracts insects alongside. But, does home inspection include termite? Well, there are certain areas not covered under a standard home inspection, termite being one of those. Similarly, other such elements not a part of home inspection are lead paints, swimming pools, toxic mold and asbestos.