What types of things do Home Inspectors find?

Great question. There are so many items that are inspected or checked by a home inspector. I know an AmeriSpec Home inspector checks over 400 items in every home we inspect. The items that seem to get a lot of attention are as follows.

1. Roof and roofing structure. Shingles aren't the only item checked during an inspection. If the inspector doesn't walk the roof (if it's not too steep) there's so many other items that can be missed. Like the flashing's. The flashings are what makes the rain water not seep into the main structure of the house. If they are gapping or not installed properly the roof could end up with some leaks, and that's a bad thing. There's also the venting stacks. Want to be sure the venting for the plumbing is proper otherwise there could be sewer gas coming back into the home. No a good thing. And the chimney, here's where you could end up with damages if there's some mortar deterioration or if the top part of the chimney (the Cap) isn't secure. Water can get down the chimney and cause all kinds of problems.

2. Windows. Here's where a good inspector earns his/her money. There are flashings around the windows and doors that need to be inspected. Not only can there be cold air infiltrating into the home, but water can sneak in and cause some trouble, like fungus or mold.

3. Electrical Issues. The panel isn't the only item that a home inspector inspects, but it's an important one. We look to be sure the wires all agree with the fuses or circuit breakers. Make sure there aren't too many wires to one fuse or breaker. We even look at the brand of the box to be certain the panel is one that appears to be safe. If it's a Federal Pacific Panel or a Zinsco, we should tell our client to have a licensed electrician inspect it for safety. We also check the electrical outlets for grounding and their polarity.

4. Plumbing. Most home inspectors will check all the plumbing facilities, like sinks, tubs, showers and toilets. There's plenty of leaking go on in some of those homes and we're there to find which one is leaking. We check the waste+ stacks for leaks, especially if the stacks are still cast iron. If we see a rust spot, we suggest a licensed plumber be called in. And we should be suggesting a sewer lateral by a competent plumber as well.

Okay, this should be all anybody can stand about home inspections. There will be more later after a little rest.

Any questions about these items or about any other home inspection question, the Jardine AmeriSpec Office would be glad to answer your calls and emails. Remember the number 314-308-6489. Thanks for reading!