Most people already know that hiring an inspector is essential – but what are inspectors looking for when they evaluate a house?
What Do Home Inspectors Look for in a House?
A home inspector has one job: to point out defects in the home. He or she doesn’t care whether you buy it; instead, the inspector wants to make sure you have all the information you need to make the right decision.
Here’s what inspectors look for:
- The home’s overall structure. The inspector will check out everything from the foundation to the roof. He or she will look for condensation, leaks, code violations and more. The inspector will also look for mold, cracks in the floor and the ceiling, and damage around electrical fixtures.
- The exterior. Broken seals, deterioration of walkways, and cracks in the exterior due to the building settling should catch your inspector’s eye. Your inspector will also check the garage door, the deck and the patio.
- The interior. Your inspector will check out doorways, counters, cabinets and windows. He or she will also inspect floors, stairs and other fixtures, including appliances that are included with the home.
- The roof. Inspectors examine rooftops to search for loose shingles or tiles, and they find out how tight the flashing is. They look for limbs that touch the house, check the gutters and test the drains. A skilled home inspector will also check out skylights and chimneys to ensure that they’re properly sealed.
- The HVAC system, insulation and ventilation. Your inspector will test the air conditioning and the heat to find out whether they’re working. He or she will check the filters and supply pipes. Inspectors check out crawlspaces to check the insulation, and they ensure that vents and vent fans are in proper working order.
- The home’s plumbing. Inspectors check water flow, piping, drains and wastewater systems. They’ll also look for mineral deposits and ensure that the fittings are all intact. In some cases, home inspectors test the water for bacteria.
- The house’s electrical system. Home inspectors verify that the electrical components in the house are operational and safe. They’ll also note where the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are.
Do You Need to Talk to a Lake City Realtor® About Buying a Home?
Whether you’re buying a house, a farm, or a tract of timberland, we can help you find something that’s just right for your needs.
Call us at 386-243-0124 or contact us online. We may be able to help you find the perfect property in Lake City or the surrounding communities.
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