Home Inspection Services

Homebuyers can rarely determine themselves whether a house is structurally sound. For this reason, those in the market for a house are usually advised to contract the services of a professional home inspector in order to evaluate a prospective home from top to bottom and determine its suitability for purchase.

How a Home Inspection Works

A standard home inspection is quite thorough, with focus on a handful of particular problem areas. In addition to the physical components which make up the house itself (the walls, roof, and foundation), an inspection encompasses the major mechanical systems of the home:

• Plumbing


• Air conditioning


• Heating


• Insulation


• Electrical wiring.

Particular attention is paid to isolated areas such as attics and basements, where problems frequently arise. Occasionally systems pertaining to groundwater, such as septic tanks and wells, are also tested. Upon the home inspection's completion (a process which most often takes five to ten days) the individual who contracted the home inspection is given a formal report, by which they can determine whether or not they wish to proceed with purchasing the house, and possibly renegotiate the price or request that the seller enact repairs.

A home inspection is neither an appraisal nor a certification, and as such there is no repair bill or pass/fail criteria associated with it. It is simply a detailed description of the structure's physical condition.

Key Areas in Home Inspection

Home inspectors generally keep their eyes open for a handful of indicators that might denote a house in poor condition. The existence of mold and mildew is a major signifier of a problem home, as such substances are extremely pervasive and difficult to eliminate. Similarly, areas of significant dampness can indicate both mold problems and issues with the plumbing, as well as potential damage to the home's foundation if the water has drained downward. A secure roof with all the shingles intact is an important defense against dampness, and so any problems with roofing will be particularly noted by home inspectors. Inadequacies in the pipes and wiring will also be deemed highly significant.

Hiring a Home Inspector

When procuring the services of a home inspector, one should note carefully a prospective hire's credentials and experience. Inspectors with training in architectural designing and/or engineering are particularly desirable, as are those who have attended formal home inspection schools. Home inspectors frequently advertise themselves as belonging to a specific home inspection association. While membership in one of these organizations may reflect favorably on the inspector, it is not necessarily significant, as many such associations enroll members casually and do not monitor their members in any notable manner. In general, seeking out a home inspector with several years of experience and solid communications skills will yield the best results.