What Do Home Inspectors Look For?
From your Friends at A B Home Inspections, Inc.!
The idea of a home inspection can be worrisome – at least for some people. Some think this way because they have no idea of what happens during the home inspection while others think it’s a deal killer. For some reason, a home inspection may cause anxiety to both buyer and seller. However, looking at the bigger picture, it’s actually beneficial for both. So whether you are a buyer or a seller, realize there’s no such thing as a perfect home. What the home inspector does is to provide you the knowledge you need to know about the home. They offer a comprehensive inspection report of the property.
A home inspection is not a Pass/Fail examination but a service performed to see what issues, if any, there are with the home. More than likely, the home inspection report will show some concerns with the home. Whether it is minor or costly, concerns will be noted. To further understand what home inspectors look for, read on to know the important points. These are vital for the real estate transaction.
What’s Included In The Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a non-invasive visual examination of the home. It can run between 2 to 5 hours depending on the size, age, and condition of the home. The home inspector will look at the structural, safety, and function of the home. This includes the foundation, basement, crawlspace, roof, siding, deck, porch, patio, garage, walls, doors, and ceiling. Major systems including electrical, plumbing, and the HVAC system are examined. The goal of a home inspection is to look for and report on the current conditions of the home. Usually, within 24-hours following the home inspection, you will receive a comprehensive, full-color, narrative report. This will inform you of any issues as well as recommendations.
Major Issues Found
Several major issues that home inspectors are focused on. These issues are some of the most expensive and labor-intensive fixes. They could pose threats to health and safety, as well as the overall function of the home.
Water Damage
When water accumulates, it can cause a host of issues that is a red flag for the buyers. Water in the basement can be a sign of structural damage, an undetected roof leak or a plumbing leak. Indications can be stains on the ceiling or walls, musty smell as well as mold growing in a damp area. This can make for a toxic home environment.
Foundation Issues
The Home’s structural integrity is compromised include cracks in basement walls and door frames. Uneven floors, cracks and gaps between walls and floors, nails that pop out of the walls, and gaps around window and door frames are also indicators.
Roof Damage
When it’s safe, most home inspectors will walk the roof to look for any roof issues. Others use drones to handle this task. Common roof issues include loose or missing shingles, nail pops, and excessive algae growth. Soft spots, cracks, rust or missing flashing, and an indication of moisture in the attic are checked.
Problems With The Electrical
Improper electrical distribution remains one of the leading causes of fire. Home inspectors are focused on determining the conditions of the electrical conditions in the home. Exposed wiring, painted outlets, and double-tapping of circuit breakers are checked. Improperly modified electrical panels are among the few electrical hazards home inspectors find.
Plumbing Issues
Running toilets, hidden water leaks, sediment buildup, high water pressure, and broken or rusty pipes. These are some of the plumbing issues that when left unattended could cost thousands of dollars to fix.
There’s no such thing as a perfect home. Don’t be overwhelmed if you receive a lengthy home inspection report. Focus more on the summary of the issues. Discuss with your agent how to move forward with the purchase. The main goal of a home inspection is to give you the knowledge you need to make an informed buying decision. Home inspection is a crucial and very important step in the home buying process.
If you or someone you know is purchasing a home and needs a quality home inspector in Birmingham, AL, be sure to give A B Home Inspections, Inc. a call at (205) 835-0539 Today or Click To Schedule Online 24/7 Right From Our Website.
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