Inspections

When selling or buying a house, various property inspections can be done to assess the condition of the home and identify any potential issues. These inspections help ensure transparency and provide both parties with a clear understanding of the property’s state. Here are the most common types of property inspections that can be conducted:

• General Home Inspection
  • A standard inspection that covers the overall condition of the house
  • The inspector will examine the foundation, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), windows, doors, and insulation
  • Buyers typically request this inspection, but sellers sometimes get a pre-listing inspection to address issues before listing

• Pest or Termite Inspection
  • Focuses on identifying signs of wood-destroying organisms like termites, carpenter ants, or wood-boring beetles
  • The inspector will look for evidence of pest infestations and damage to the wood structures of the home, including the foundation, walls and roof

• Roof Inspection
  • A roof inspector will assess the condition of the roof, gutters, and downspouts
  • They look for signs or wear and tear, missing or damaged shingles, leaks, and overall roof life expectancy

• Mold Inspection
  • Checks for mold growth, moisture problems, or conditions that could lead to mold.
  • The inspector may test for air quality and look for mold in areas like basements, bathroom, attics and crawl spaces

• Radon Inspection
  • Tests for radon, a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that can be harmful when inhaled over a long period
  • Radon testing is particularly important in areas where radon is common, and buyers may request it as part of their due diligence

• Sewer or Septic System Inspection
  • If the house is connected to a sewer line, a sewer inspection will check for blockages, leaks or damage to the system
  • For homes with septic systems, an inspection will ensure the septic tank is functioning correctly and check for leaks or damage

• Plumbing Inspection
  • Focuses on the home’s plumbing system, including pipes, water heaters, and fixtures
  • Inspectors check for leaks, water pressure issues, water quality, and potential corrosion of pipes

• Electrical Inspection
  • Inspects the wiring, circuit breakers, outlets, and electrical panels
  • Ensures that the home’s electrical system is up to code and safe from fire hazards or potential overload

• HVAC Inspection
  • Evaluates the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for proper function
  • Inspectors check for maintenance needs, efficiency and any potential repairs or replacements needed for the HVAC system

• Foundation Inspection
  • Examines the foundation for any cracks, shifts, or signs of instability
  • May also assess the structural integrity of basements, crawl spaces, and other foundational elements

• Chimney Inspection
  • For homes with a fireplace, a chimney inspection is essential to assess the chimney’s condition and ensure it’s free of blockages, creosote buildup, or structural damage

• Pool and Spa Inspection
  • If the property includes a pool or spa, an inspection will check the structural integrity, water filtration systems, and safety measures like fences or covers

• Environmental or Asbestos Inspection
  • In older homes, inspectors may test for the presence of asbestos, lead paint, or other hazardous materials
  • This type of inspection is particularly important if the home was built before 1978

• Lead-Based Paint Inspection
  • If the house was built before 1978, federal law requires disclosure of lead-based paint
  • A lead inspection checks for the presence of lead paint and evaluates potential risks

• Flood Risk or Soil Inspection
  • In areas prone to flooding or with shifting soil, a soil or flood risk inspection may be necessary
  • This inspection helps assess any potential water damage risks or soil stability issues.

These inspections are helpful for buyers and sellers to identify any potential problems, negotiate repairs, or adjust the purchase price based on the findings. Depending on the home and it’s location, not all of these inspections may be requires, but some may be highly recommended.