Home inspectors are responsible for determining whether or not a home has any flaws. This usually entails a thorough understanding of relevant local ordinances, such as frame construction, electrical and plumbing systems, heating and cooling systems, and the state of any other structures on the property. When a home is up for sale, the inspector is frequently called upon to conduct a real estate inspection. It’s important to distinguish between a home inspector and a building inspector, or code inspector, who is responsible for ensuring that a property complies with all applicable housing codes. While a home inspector should be familiar with governing codes and most likely is, he or she is not responsible for ensuring that all applicable codes are followed; this is the responsibility of the building inspector.
A thorough analysis of just about every element of the home that is considered a permanent feature is required when conducting a home inspection, whether for private clients or real estate inspections for a realty agency. A home inspector may spend anywhere from a few hours to the better part of a day on a single home, depending on its size. The emphasis is not only on completing home inspections as quickly as possible, but also on ensuring that no aspect of the property is overlooked.
The condition of the core structure is one of the first things a home inspector will look at. This entails inspecting the home’s foundation for any weakened areas of support. Any signs of cracks in the walls or flooring, as well as seepage or mold, are looked for in basements and crawl spaces. The inspector can move on to the major systems that provide utilities to the home if the basic structure appears to be sound.
The home’s heating and cooling systems, as well as the electrical wiring and plumbing system, will usually be the next phase of the inspection. Leaks and proper installation of gas lines are checked. Because electricity powers so many of the household systems and major appliances, the wiring is often of particular interest to the home inspector. Plumbing is also expected to be installed in accordance with local codes and to show no signs of breakdown right away. If there are fireplaces or wood stoves, they are both inspected to ensure they are in good working order and properly vented.
After that, the inspector’s focus usually shifts to the home’s interior structures. This entails inspecting the condition of interior walls and door frames for signs of a weakened infrastructure. Ceilings are also examined to ensure that they are in good working order. The home inspector will look for safety devices, such as smoke detectors, throughout the space. The interior inspection includes attic spaces, closets, and the condition of the windows.
Outside, the inspector will examine the roof for proper flashing and drainage via gutters and downspouts, as well as any attached elements such as porches or decks, to ensure that they are stable and safe. Other structures on the property, such as garages or storage sheds, are also inspected and approved before the home inspector declares the job finished.