When you’re ready to buy a home, one of the first things you should do is have it inspected. But what do you need to know before scheduling your home inspection? In this article, we will outline some of the most important details. From the importance of a detailed report to identifying common issues, read on to learn everything you need to know about home inspectors.
What is a home inspection?
Home inspection is a process of verifying the condition of a property. The inspector will visit the property, inspect its structural and mechanical elements, and look for any signs of problems. Home inspectors may also perform tests on the property’s appliances, HVAC system, electrical systems, and more.
A home inspection should be done every five years for most properties; however, it can be done more often if there are concerns or repairs that need to be made. Home inspectors typically charge between $150 and $350 per hour.
What are the different types of inspections?
There are generally three types of inspections that a homeowner should be aware of: structural, functional, and environmental. Structural inspections include checking for signs of foundation problems or instability, checking for proper roofing, guttering, and insulation, and inspecting the walls, windows, and doors for proper installation. Functional inspections cover such things as checking for leaks in the roof or plumbing system, checking smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, examining HVAC systems to make sure they work properly and are functioning correctly seasonal adjustments etc. Environmental inspections may involve checking for pests (instructions will vary depending on the location), making sure there is no vegetation growing in hazardous areas around the home, looking for damage from recent storms etc.
It is important to choose an inspector that is qualified to inspect your specific home. The NAHB’s 2016 Report on Home Inspectors lists all-inclusive certifications that inspectors must have in order to provide home inspection services in North America. This list includes certification from both the National Association of Home Builders/International Code Council (AHBI/ICC) Joint Program Board (JBP) Professional Inspector Certification Program (PICP), which has been adopted by most state licensing boards across the U.S., as well as state specific program board certification such as Pennsylvania Certified Home Inspector (PHI).
The NAHB also maintains a directory of accredited home inspectors who have met rigorous standards set by the NAHB’s Accredited
What to Expect during an Inspection
The process of home inspection isn’t just for the seller. Home inspectors are available to help both buyers and sellers alike by verifying that the property is in good condition and meeting all of the necessary safety requirements. Inspectors may also uncover any potential defects that could impact the sale or prevent a homeowner from getting a mortgage.
Inspectors typically perform three types of inspections: visual, functional, and structural. Visual inspections check for problems with the exterior of a property such as roofs, windows, decking, fences, and landscaping. Functional inspections check whether appliances work properly, locks work properly, water lines are intact, and wiring is in good condition. Structural inspections evaluate how well walls, floors, ceilings and roofs are built and whether they’re in proper condition.
There’s no specific order in which an inspector should inspect a property; however, it’s important to have an idea of what to look for so you can ask questions during the inspection. The following are some common problems that home inspectors find:
– Leaks: Water leaks can cause damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, flooring and valuable possessions like artwork or antiques. Check for hidden leaks around pipes and vents as well as around plumbing fixtures including toilets and shower heads.
2 – Moisture: Acidity from bacteria or mold can cause wood to warp or rot; this often happens behind baseboards or inside basements where moisture collects. Check windowsills for condensation buildup and watch out
Home Inspectors and the Law
Home inspectors are not just another construction crew. In fact, they have a special license and certification that sets them apart from most other professionals.
A home inspector must be licensed and accredited by the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI). NAHI requires its inspectors to have at least five years of experience in the inspection field before being certified. Additionally, all inspectors must pass an exam.
The law protecting homeowners from defects in their homes is very specific. The law states that every homeowner has a right to receive a free, objective inspection of their property by a qualified inspector every six years, or when there is any significant change to the structure or condition of the home. This requirement can be met by hiring a home inspector who is licensed and accredited by NAHI.
Conclusion
It can be difficult to know whom to trust when it comes to making important decisions about our homes, but fortunately, there are people out there who are dedicated to ensuring that we make the right choices. Home inspectors play an important role in this process by providing unbiased and detailed reports on a property’s overall condition. If you’re ever wondering if hiring a home inspector is the right decision for you, read on for some helpful advice.