As a prospective home buyer, are you sophisticated in identifying problem areas in your potential new home? Most of us are not.
Professional home inspectors inspect the premises for the integrity of the internal and external components of the dwelling. Following are a few areas that home inspectors look at:
Structural Home inspectors are not structural engineers, but most inspect the essential internal and external structural components of a home to determine their integrity, thereby identifying visual defects in these areas requiring immediate attention.
Electrical Home inspectors generally assess the electrical system of a home to determine whether outlets are working, the home has fuses or breakers, there are any visible signs of fraying of the wiring, there are any code violations, as well as provide an overall opinion of the condition of the electrical system.
Heating & Cooling Home inspectors inspect the HVAC system to determine the age, type and whether it is functioning properly. They may suggest servicing to insure proper operation.
Plumbing Home inspectors inspect the home’s plumbing to determine whether the mechanical systems and fixtures work properly, including the identification of any leaks or annoying drips.
Built-In Appliances Home inspectors will generally assess the condition of built-in appliances and determine whether they are operating properly.
Safety Hazards Home inspectors are not environmental specialists, but they can identify many safety hazards, dangerous conditions and code violations.
Miscellaneous Other items that may be included in a home inspection include: septic systems, roofs, drainage problems, wood decks, patios, pool equipment, sprinkler systems, alarm systems, etc. Be sure to verify which, if any, of these items are reviewed by your home inspector.
Note: Termite, geological or land surveys, as well as environmental or pollution inspections are normally not included in a home inspection, but may be required or completed separately for your own peace of mind.
Home inspectors provide a unique customer service by identifying existing problems with a home, and assisting in promoting and facilitating communication with the home seller. There are many home inspection companies to choose from. We have compiled the following information to assist you in making an "informed choice" when it comes to a home inspection company.
For additional information on home inspectors, I suggest checking with the following organizations:
American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
932 Less Street, Suite 101, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Ph (847) 759-2820 / Info on Demand (800) 743-ASHI
National Institute of Building Inspectors (NIBI)
Ph (888) 281-6424
Home Inspection Institute of America, Inc.
P.O. Box 4174, Yalesville, CT 06492
Ph (203) 284-2311
Phoenix Better Business Bureau
4428 N. 12th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014
Ph (602) 264-1721
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