A home inspection is usually required by the mortgage business prior to lending money secured by real estate. Unlike a house evaluation, which seeks to discover the market value of a house, a home inspection appears into each nook and cranny to find out if the house has any mechanical or structural problems.
Roofing and Chimney
An inspector will assess whether the peak is level and straight, the roof sagging between rafters, if shingles reveal any signs of corrosion, roof vents are visible, and if there is any loose flashing near the chimney. In regard to the chimney, then he’ll look for a cracked or broken masonry cap, either missing or flaking mortar or bricks. Eventually, he will check to find out if the chimney is straight.
Soffits, Fascia, Gutters and Downspouts
The inspector will produce a note of if the soffit and fascia are timber, aluminum or plastic, and if there are no loose or missing sections. He will also inspect for visible rot or paint problems. He’s going to want to ensure that the gutters slope down, toward the downspouts. He’ll look for peeling paint and rust on the gutters and downspouts, as well as loose flows and sections.
Walls, Windows and Doors
The home inspector will assess that walls are directly both horizontally and vertically, that they are free of cracked or loose plaster, are unstained, and don’t have any proof of previous fix. He’ll inquire into the windows to find any problems with paint, caulking or rotted wood. He’ll note the approximate age of these windows.
Porches and Decks
An inspection will be done around your porch or deck, looking for cracking or flaking masonry, paint problems and rotted timber. The inspector is also going to want to know whether any settlement or separation in the home has occurred.
Flooring, Basement and Foundation
Floors will be checked for either deteriorated or cracked vinyl sheeting, stained timber, and sloping or cracked. Basements will be investigated for evidence of water penetration, while foundations will be searched for any bowing, bulging, or other evident irregularities.
Baths and Kitchens
The inspector will check to see that all fittings are protected and without fractures. He willl note the condition of tiles and caulking in the tub area and will make sure all faucets are in working order, with sufficient water pressure. He will look for rot and discoloration beneath counter tops and carefully assess the performance of cabinet doors and drawers.
Ceilings
The ceiling is going to be checked out to make sure that none of the plaster is cracked, sagging or loose and that there is not any evidence of stains.
Electro-Mechanical Systems
The inspector will make note of the type, age and style of their heating and cooling systems in the house, if they were inspected, and if there is any visible rust or rust. He will also assess the size and age of their electric service to the house and if the outlets are grounded. He’ll look to find out whether the wiring is safe and in good shape and if any upgrades have been made.