What to expect from an inspection from The Home Inspections Company
What to expect from an inspection from The Home Inspections Company
Exterior:
Exterior:
An inspection of the exterior foundation walls, exterior walls, grading, vegetation near structure, windows, doors, porches, patios, decks, and identify possible tripping hazards on walkways and driveway. Two very important areas on the exterior are the condition of grading and the decks (if applicable). Grading is very important. If the property is not properly graded (with the ground sloping downward away from the house) there is a good chance that water infiltration will become a problem inside the home and possibly create foundation issues. There may also be many problems and unsafe conditions with improperly constructed decks and landings.
Roof systems:
Roof systems:
Roof inspections involve walking the roof (if possible). There are times walking on the roof is not feasible due to poor weather conditions, steep pitches, type of roof material and condition. If the roof cannot be walked it will be inspected with binoculars from the grade level and/or a ladder if possible. When inspecting a roof the flashings, condition of roof coverings, how many layers, type of materials used, defects, suitability of materials, visible parts of the exterior of chimney, chimney flashing, roof penetrations (such as plumbing vents and attic vent systems) will be examined.
Plumbing:
Plumbing:
Accessible supply and waste plumbing pipes, connections, water heater and connections will be inspected. Locations of waste cleanouts, water main and shutoff for water supply will be identified if found. All fixtures and drains will be tested for functionality and observed for leaks and proper installation.
Electrical:
Electrical:
All accessible panels will have the dead front cover removed and inspected when safe to do so. The interior of the panel boxes, wiring, breakers, connections, bonding, and grounding will be inspected. All accessible receptacles including GFCl-protected receptacles and their locations will be tested and note when repairs are needed to help ease the chance of electric shock should a ground fault occur. Visible unsafe wiring and fire and shock hazards will be noted. Often non-professional wiring installed by homeowners, flippers, handymen are present and these installations are usually done improperly and may be considered unsafe.
Kitchen:
Kitchen:
In the kitchen, the sink plumbing and connections will be inspected. Both the hot and cold water will be operated, faucets inspected, and a temperature test for the water temperature will be performed. The electrical receptacles (GFCI) will be tested and the dishwasher, range, vent hood, microwave, and any other built-in appliances, (trash compactors excluded) will be operated. Cabinets/doors, counters, walls, doors, fixtures, and ceiling will be examined. All visible appliance identification labels are entered in the report.
Interior rooms:
Interior rooms:
A room to room inspection of the walls, floors, ceilings, light fixtures, electrical receptacles, and all accessible windows will be done keeping an eye out for existing conditions. Some of the problems looked for are water damage and structural abnormalities.
Bathrooms:
Bathrooms:
In the bathrooms, the hot and cold water at the sink faucets, tub (filled and overflows checked for operation), and showers will be operated. Commodes will be inspected and flushed. The plumbing and waste connections checked for leaks (if visible), tub tiles and surrounds inspected and shower door operated if equipped. If the home is equipped with a hydro-therapeutic tub it will be filled and operated, the tub and inspect the motor and wiring, if accessible, and identify and test the GFCI. Electrical receptacles (GFCI) will be tested.
Garage:
Garage:
The walls, ceiling, and floor will be checked for any existing conditions, GFCI for operation and garage electrical for operation and compliance, and the doors/openers for operation and compliance.
Attic:
Attic:
If the attic space is accessible at the time of the home inspection, all visible areas will be inspected for structural defects, signs of water damage as well as comment on the existing attic ventilation, status of insulation, type and thickness, and roof structure type.
HVAC:
HVAC:
A visual examination of all components and a temperature variation test across the coil (Delta T reading) will be performed to determine if the unit is cooling efficiently or in need of service. A visual inspection and heat test of the furnace by looking at the flame pattern on gas fueled furnaces and a temperature reading at the vents on an electric furnace will also be done. All legible identification labels are in the report and the make and year of the HVAC unit (if visible) is identified in the report.
Infrared Scan:
Infrared Scan:
An infrared scan at no extra charge will be performed to try and identify any anomalies not visible to the eye such as leaks, or major deficiencies in insulation.
Sprinkler Systems: (when applicable)
Sprinkler Systems: (when applicable)
A visible system check on the sprinkler system to identify any defects, coverage of yard, and conditions conducive to damage to the structure of the home is performed at no cost.
