A non-invasive examination of a house, often times in connection with the sale of the home. Because many home buyers are not familiar with all of the components of a house, the home inspection is an opportunity for an objective assessment by one of our certified inspectors. If this is your first home inspection (or if it has been awhile) let’s review the elements of the home inspection. Please note, the inspector will be inspecting much more than the following list, but this is a basic idea for your reference.
The exterior of the house is just as important as the inside. It provides protection and insulation from outside elements. Observation of not only the structure, but the details in the exterior of the home contributes to the integrity of the house and the value of the home.
Roof
The main purpose of the roof is to protect the house from the elements – wind, snow, rain, and the sun, and we want to make sure it will. The inspector will walk on the roof in safe conditions. Attention will be focused on the state of the roof, soundness of structure, water penetration, condition of the chimney and flashings, and effectiveness of drainage.
Structure
The skeleton of the home includes the foundation and footing as well as the framework – the floor, wall and ceiling structure. Our home inspector will look for visible signs of the hidden structural component integrity and potential water damage. Underfloor crawl spaces and attic spaces will be observed for insulation, ventilation, and possible water damage in the absence of dangerous or adverse situations.
Exterior & Grounds
The exterior of the house has many different aspects of the inspector to observe. Attention will be focused on the siding, chimney, gutters, soffit and fascia, flashing and trim. Entryway doors and windows will be assessed. Our inspector will check all decks, balconies, stoops and steps, and porches for safety. The garage and garage door will be noted including different safety hazards.
During a home inspection virtually every space within the living area is inspected floor to ceiling, including all rooms, closets, foyers, hallways, and stairwells. As the inspector walks through each room, they will be checking plumbing fixtures and faucets, the electrical switches and outlets, and the presence of heat and cooling source. Windows and doors will be examined.
Electrical
All visible components of the electrical system will be evaluated during the inspections with careful attention to potential safety hazards. The service entrance, the main panel, the branch circuit wiring, and outlying fixtures, switches, and outlets will be examined.
Plumbing
A visual inspection of defects will be performed of the exposed supply and waste distribution piping and fixtures. This will include the interior water supply and distribution system, hot water system, fuel storage and distribution systems, sump pumps, and interior drain, waste, and vent systems.
Heating & Cooling
Permanently installed heating systems, central and area heating, will be evaluated by the home inspector. Hot water heaters, heat sources in each room, gas leaks, temperature and pressure readings and proper venting will all be examined. Central air cooling systems will be inspected, particularly the operating controls and distribution system.
As you can see, there are many elements involved in a home inspection. That is why we strongly recommend that you walk through with the inspector if you are able so that they may be able to help explain the inner workings of your potential new home. There is a lot to learn, especially for first time home buyers, and we are committed to helping you not only understand, but feel confident with your decision.
HOURS
MON – FRI : 8am-6pm
SAT : BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
SUN : CLOSED
2312 FAR HILLS AVE. SUITE 184 DAYTON, OH 45419
937-716-5828