Identifying Problems when Getting a Home Inspection

In this article I will post some items that you should examine when purchasing a home.  A good home inspector will go over each of these in much more detail than presented here.

• Safe and Operational AC and heating systems, duct-work condition
• Leakage of pools, spas, or other drainage water pooling problems
• Improper Electrical connections – GFCI components if applicable
• Exterior – cracked or loose siding, shifting, repainting needed
• Roof damage – plywood in the attic, shingles on the outside, flashing around vents, seams, loose or damaged gutters
• Foundation problems – exposed post extensions ends, poor grade, pooling water, trees too close (roots under slab) , elevated about outside ground level
• Interior and exterior doors and windows – sticking, leaking weatherstripping, locks working
• Fireplace and chimneys functional vent, cap and flue problems, type of fireplace,
• Lockable breaker box, proper installation, functionality
• Working appliances – secured against tipping
• Plumbing and sewage systems, all systems draining and flowing properly
• Smoke and co2 detection systems functional and installed in proper locations
• Alarm system operational at all entry locations
• Gas lines – leakage, shutoffs available

 This list is not comprehensive, there are literally hundreds of things that can be wrong with a home.  Even the best inspectors won’t be able to find everything that could be wrong with a home, but they can often identify major issues that you should be aware of or that could be a strong enough reason to not buy a home.  If you end up buying a used home always get copies of all service records, receipts and any existing warranties on the home, appliances and systems.